Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has addressed the recent transfer of musician and police officer Samuel Muchoki Ndirangu, popularly known as Samidoh, amid speculation linking the move to a viral video in which he was seen chanting a politically charged slogan.
Samidoh, who was stationed at the Anti-Stock Theft Unit headquarters in Gilgil, has reportedly been reassigned to Baringo County, a region plagued by banditry and insecurity.
The transfer sparked debate online, with many Kenyans suggesting it was a punitive response to his chanting of “Wantam”—a slogan widely associated with the opposition and viewed as politically provocative.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, May 28, IG Kanja dismissed the rumors of disciplinary action, stating that transfers within the police service are routine and part of standard personnel management.
“All officers, including Samidoh, are subject to redeployment as part of normal operational needs,” said Kanja. “There is nothing unusual or punitive about his transfer.”
While IG Kanja did not reference the viral video directly, his remarks appeared aimed at defusing public perception that the move was politically motivated.
The incident has reignited conversations about the balance between personal freedoms and professionalism within the National Police Service, especially for officers who are also public figures. Samidoh, a popular mugithi artist, has long juggled his music career and police duties, often attracting both public admiration and scrutiny.
As of now, Samidoh has not made a public statement regarding the reassignment.
