Radio host and sports commentator Fred Arocho has publicly criticised Kenyan singer Kevin Bahati for failing to fulfil his KSh 1 million pledge to the Harambee Stars following their 1-0 victory over Morocco in the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024).
Bahati and his wife Diana Marua had promised the reward if the national team won the match on August 9 at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. Two weeks later, the singer had yet to deliver the funds, prompting Arocho to address the issue directly on his TV 7 show.
Arocho expressed frustration at the repeated delays and perceived excuses. He explained that Bahati had claimed to coordinate with Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice Chairman McDonald Mariga, stating he was in Naivasha and would remit the funds after returning to Nairobi. By August 17, the money had still not been delivered.
“Now let me warn Bahati, you will remit that money. You’re not going to use Kenyan players in your clout chasing. Stop those excuses, go and give the money,” Arocho declared, setting a Wednesday deadline for Bahati to honour his commitment.
The radio host emphasised that his criticism was not personal but rooted in concern for the Harambee Stars. He recounted following up with Bahati multiple times, highlighting the need for public figures to uphold their promises to national teams.
Harambee Stars players also voiced disappointment at the unfulfilled pledge, joining fans in urging Bahati to act. Previously, Bahati had sought Mariga’s approval to hand over the money, citing fan pressure and protocol issues as reasons for the delay.
Arocho’s intervention has intensified scrutiny on Bahati, reinforcing public expectation that the singer should honour his promise. As the Wednesday deadline approaches, all eyes are on Bahati to ensure the Harambee Stars receive the pledged support.
