Kenyan rapper Henry Ohanga, popularly known as Octopizzo, on Sunday, December 29, 2024, voiced concern over the recent spate of abductions in the country.
In a statement, the award-winning rapper expressed his frustration over what he termed a scheme choreographed to violate the freedom of expression.
He argued that the enforced disappearance targeted some individuals who used artistic expressions to criticise the government of the day.
As a humanitarian and socially conscious figure, Octopizzo added that artistic criticism helps to raise awareness even without resolving street demonstrations.
“Once again I strongly condemn the abduction of young Kenyans using art, illustrations, and other creative outlets to express their frustrations and advocate for change. These actions, seemingly sanctioned by unknown forces within the government, violate our constitutional right to free expression,” Octopizzo’s statement read in part.
“Art is a non-violent form of demonstration, offering impactful ways to raise awareness without taking to the streets. Silencing young voices through intimidation and repression is unacceptable,” it added.
Octopizzo’s demands
Known for using his platform to address social and political issues, Octopizzo implored President William Ruto’s administration to protect all citizens irrespective of their political stand.
Further, Octopizzo asked the government of the day to ensure the freedom of expression is protected as enshrined in the 2010 promulgated constitution.
“We demand the government protect its citizens and uphold freedom of expression. Creativity is not a crime,” Octopizzo demanded.
The award-winning rapper pledged to stand by all the artists who are using their creative works to call for accountability.
So far, satirist Kibet Bull, Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, and Bernard Kavuli are among those who have been reported missing.
Once again I strongly condemn the abduction of young Kenyans using art, illustrations, and other creative outlets to express their frustrations and advocate for change. These actions, seemingly sanctioned by unknown forces within the government, violate our constitutional right…
— OCTOPIZZO (@OCTOPIZZO) December 29, 2024
His sentiments come almost 72 hours after President Ruto promised to bring to an end the issue of abductions. Speaking on Friday, December 27, 2024, Ruto challenged parents to raise their children well while promising to address the issue that had attracted widespread criticism from all political quarters.
“As a government, we will do our part, and the issue of abductions will end in the country so the youth can live in harmony and the youth can become people of integrity and respect to move the country forward,” Ruto announced despite the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the National Police Service denying their involvement in the matter.
Octopizzo, whose rise to stardom is linked to Kibera, has been vocal in calling for accountability. During the anti-finance bill protests, he was among the artists who thronged the streets to reject the controversial policies.
Recently, he also condemned an alarming surge in femicide cases across the country. Octopizzo called for more decisive action from authorities, highlighting instances where individuals have been reported multiple times to police stations without appropriate actions being taken.
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