Kenyan artist Millicent Jerotich, the singer behind the popular song ‘Mali Safi Chito‘ has been summoned by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over alleged inciteful lyrics in her latest release targeting President William Ruto.
The song ‘Arap Ruto,’ released on January 23, 2025, has drawn regulatory scrutiny for its critical stance on government initiatives, including the Social Health Insurance Fund and the new university funding model.
In a statement posted on their X account on February 5, 2025, the NCIC instructed Jerotich popularly known as Marakwet Daughter to appear at their offices in Nairobi.
The commission is investigating her use of the term ‘Arap Ruto‘ in the song, claiming it could incite ethnic contempt, hatred, or hostility among various communities in Kenya.
“Pursuant to the above-mentioned mandate, the Commission is investigating the words used in your hit song to wit; “Arap Ruto” Words which are likely to incite feelings of ethnic contempt, hatred, and hostility and affect harmonious coexistence between different ethnic communities in Kenya,” the statement reads in part.
The NCIC cited Sections 13(1)(a) and 62 of the National Cohesion and Integration Act, which prohibits speech that fosters ethnic discrimination or incitement.
They emphasized that failing to comply with the summons would constitute an offence under Section 63(c) as read with Section 63(e) of the Act.
“Take notice that you are hereby required to appear at the national cohesion and integration commission offices within britam towers upper hill 18th floor on wednesday 5th february 2025 at 10:00 am so as to assist the commission with aforementioned ongoing investigations. Whereas that failure to appear in person at the aforementioned place, date, and time, is an offence as provided under section 63(c) as read with section 63(e) of the national cohesion and integration act,” ncic said in the statement dated january 29, 2025.
Marakwet Daughter
Marakwet Daughter shot to instant fame when she released her song ‘Mali Safi Chito‘ in 2023.
The song permeated the air around entertainment joints and became one of the favourite wedding songs of 2023.
Previous artistes in trouble over their songs
In February 2024, the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) ordered the removal of unrated and inappropriate content circulating on various media platforms. KFCB stated that artistes Chris Embarambamba and William Getumbe’s latest songs violated the Films and Stage Plays Act.
The song ‘Niko Uchi’ which is purportedly a gospel track, has been criticized for ridiculing the Christian faith, as well as containing nudity and vulgar content.
KFCB Acting Chief Executive Nelly Muluka noted that some of the artistes’ dance styles are violent, which could be dangerous if mimicked by children or minors.
“Some of the content is being presented as art and freedom of expression, disguised as religious songs, while contravening the law and disregarding the safety and interests of children and the public at large,” Muluka stated.
