Mugithi musician Samidoh has officially announced his intention to contest the Ol Joro Orok parliamentary seat in Nyandarua County, saying his decision to enter politics is driven by a desire to directly influence leadership and development in his home constituency.
In a statement addressed to residents, Samidoh described Ol Joro Orok as his home and said his difficult upbringing had shaped his understanding of the challenges facing ordinary families.
“I am humbled to offer my candidature for the position of Member of Parliament for Ol Joro Orok Constituency,” he said.
Samidoh said he was orphaned at a young age but overcame the challenges through determination, faith and hard work. He later joined the Kenya Police Service before pursuing a career in music that took him across Kenya and beyond the country's borders.
He insisted that his political ambition was not based on his celebrity status.
“I am not offering myself because I am a musician. I am not offering myself because I am famous or because my name is known across the country,” Samidoh said.
He argued that his experiences had given him an understanding of the struggles facing communities and convinced him that speaking about change through music was no longer enough.
The musician also referred to his experience with his song “One Term”, saying the response it generated and alleged attempts to silence him strengthened his belief in the importance of citizens participating in public affairs.
If elected, Samidoh said education would be at the centre of his leadership agenda. He proposed reducing the financial burden on families with children in day schools and developing mechanisms that could progressively address school-related costs.
He also pledged to prioritise technical and vocational education, arguing that young people should acquire practical skills that can help them secure employment, establish businesses and become economically independent.
Beyond education, Samidoh said he would focus on improving roads, water infrastructure, markets and opportunities for farmers, traders, entrepreneurs and young people.
He also wants Ol Joro Orok to benefit from networks and opportunities he has encountered during his travels across Kenya and internationally.
“Leadership is ultimately about service,” he said, stressing that public office belongs to the people rather than the individual elected.
Samidoh acknowledged that he did not have all the answers but said his journey from a difficult childhood to the national and international music stage had prepared him for public service.
He concluded by calling on residents of Ol Joro Orok to support his campaign, expressing confidence that his candidacy could deliver “fresh impetus and hope” as the constituency heads towards the election.