Samidoh Resigns from Police Service After 12-Year Tenure Amid Desertion Dispute

Nairobi, Kenya – Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja has formally accepted the resignation of popular Mugithi musician Samuel Muchoki Ndirangu, better known as Samidoh, from the National Police Service (NPS). His resignation, effective July 20, 2025, brings to an end a 12-year police career that ran parallel to his rise as one of Kenya’s most celebrated artists.

Dual Identity: Musician and Police Officer

Samidoh built his reputation as a Mugithi performer while serving as a police constable. For years, he balanced both careers, often juggling stage performances with shifts in uniform. However, that dual identity increasingly came under scrutiny as his fame and influence grew.

Political Controversy and Transfers

The turning point came earlier this year when a viral video showed Samidoh leading the “Wantam” chant, widely interpreted as an opposition rallying cry against President William Ruto. Police regulations strictly bar officers from engaging in political activities, and the act drew disciplinary attention.

In response, Samidoh was transferred to the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) in Gilgil, Nakuru County, a move seen as both punitive and restrictive on his public engagements.

Desertion Allegations and Arrest Threat

By May 27, Samidoh failed to report for duty as required. The NPS declared him a deserter, halted his salary, and issued an arrest warrant. The desertion charge carried the risk of dismissal and possible imprisonment.

Defense and Legal Pushback

In his defense, Samidoh produced a police-issued travel clearance, dated April 25, 2025, authorizing his travel to the United States from May 20 to June 9. He argued that his absence was officially sanctioned and not desertion.

The dispute escalated to the courts, where Samidoh was granted anticipatory bail of Ksh 200,000 in late July, shielding him from immediate arrest. The court, however, directed him to surrender his passport as part of the bail conditions.

IG Kanja’s Official Statement

In a circular released this week, IG Douglas Kanja confirmed that Samidoh’s resignation had been received and formally accepted. “Mr. Muchoki is henceforth relieved of his duties within the National Police Service and is free to pursue his chosen path,” the statement read.

Future Outlook: Music or Politics?

With his exit from the police service, Samidoh now stands at a crossroads. His music career is already flourishing, but speculation is mounting that he could consider a political path. For now, he has not issued a formal statement on his next chapter.

Summary

Samidoh’s resignation closes a turbulent chapter marked by clashes between artistic freedom and the rigid discipline of the police service. His next moves—whether fully in music or into the political arena—are likely to shape not only his personal brand but also public discourse around the boundaries of service and expression in Kenya.