Popular Kikuyu gospel singer Karangu Muraya has responded to growing criticism over his recent visit to State House, where he and other artistes met with President William Ruto. The singer clarified that the meeting was not political but aimed at reviving Skiza, a crucial revenue stream for Kenyan musicians that had stalled due to legal challenges.
In a video shared on his social media, Karangu explained that the discussions with the president focused on resolving issues affecting the Skiza platform, which once allowed artistes to earn royalties from caller ring-back tones. These payments had stopped following court disputes, leaving many musicians struggling. Karangu said they appealed to the president for intervention and expressed hope that the payments would resume soon, ensuring a stable income for artistes across the country.
He urged fellow musicians who attended the meeting to come forward and support the facts, asking them to help dispel false narratives suggesting the visit was for personal or political gain. He emphasised that their actions were motivated by a desire to improve the livelihoods of artistes, not to “fill their stomachs” as some critics alleged.
Karangu also addressed criticism surrounding his appearance at an empowerment event hosted by Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, where he performed alongside other Kikuyu musicians. He defended the performance, stating that it was part of their job as artistes, adding that musicians from other communities also participated but were not subjected to the same level of scrutiny. He questioned why only Kikuyu artistes were being targeted and called for fairness in how artistes’ actions are interpreted by the public.
He encouraged unity among musicians, urging them to stop tearing each other down and instead support collective efforts to resolve industry challenges. Karangu also pointed out that once Skiza payments resume, many struggling artistes will no longer have to endure months without income.
In a related development, Karangu’s wife, Triza Njeri, offered him a word of encouragement, advising him not to respond to every negative comment or controversy. Her brief message resonated with many online, with supporters echoing her sentiments and offering the gospel singer words of comfort.
Despite the backlash, Karangu remains committed to advocating for artistes’ rights and improving conditions within the music industry. His message was clear: if musicians stand together and speak the truth, they can overcome the noise and create meaningful change.
