Musician Kevin Bahati has resurfaced online to address criticism over his delayed KSh 1 million reward to Harambee Stars. The singer angrily called out sports commentator Fred Arocho and dragged FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga into the saga, claiming that Mariga’s inaction is the main reason he has not yet fulfilled his promise.
During the 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN), Bahati and his wife Diana Marua made headlines when they flaunted KSh 1 million in cash on social media, promising to reward Harambee Stars if they defeated Morocco. Against all odds, Kenya secured a famous win despite playing most of the match with ten men.
Bahati initially vowed to deliver the money immediately but later cited tournament restrictions as a reason for the delay. His prolonged silence sparked heavy criticism from fans and Arocho, who publicly issued him an ultimatum during his TV47 show.
Bahati broke his silence by releasing a video showing KSh 3 million in cash, dismissing claims that he was broke or chasing clout. He directly addressed Arocho in a heated phone exchange, blasting the commentator for pressuring him.
“I have been seeing you online just making noise. Where is that team? I have returned,” Bahati told Arocho. When urged to coordinate with Mariga, he shot back, “How can I plan with Mariga when he has not been picking my calls the entire week? You guys wanted me to abandon my son’s birthday just because of KSh 1 million. Hio kelele mmepiga online sijapenda.”
Bahati further accused Mariga of failing to support him in arranging the handover. At one point, he even joked that he could buy TV47 and make Diana Arocho’s boss, insisting he was wealthy and not chasing publicity.
“I do not want to listen to irrelevant things. If you guys think that every artiste is broke, I am not. I don’t like saying it, but I am fully packed. I am rich, I am just humble because I am still saved, but that doesn’t mean they should test me,” he added before hanging up on Arocho.
The fiery exchange sparked debate online, with many questioning whether Bahati would finally deliver on his promise or if this was another publicity stunt.
_gustavo.ghost: “As long as cameras are rolling, it’s always a skit.”
Wuod homabay: “Huyu kijana ananiboo… si apeane pesa na hizo dredi zake za takataka.”
Corvtt992: “Pesa alikuwa apeleke kwa Mariga ama kwa uwanja, hio siku alikuwa wapi?”
jacwoo: “You miss the point when you talk too much.”
KingKong: “Ako na Bahati na Wewe Ni Bahati.”
Dee K: “Peana one million kelele iishie, acha hasira, a promise is a debt.”
Bahati now faces pressure to honour his pledge and end the controversy, as fans and football supporters continue to demand accountability for his public promise.
