On the eve of Harambee Stars’ historic clash against Morocco, singer Kevin Bahati and his wife Diana Marua filmed themselves making a bold promise: if the national team won, they would reward the players with Sh 1 million.
The pledge went viral, feeding into the buzz around the match. When Harambee Stars stunned Morocco 1-0, fans cheered not just the football, but the thought of their heroes being appreciated by a local star.
But more than a week later, the team has not seen a cent — and one of Kenya’s most popular football voices, Fred Arocho, is leading the call-out.
Arocho, a celebrated sports commentator and one of the most recognizable figures in Kenyan football, did not mince words. Speaking on his platforms, he accused Bahati of turning a proud moment into empty clout chasing.
“You can’t joke with the Harambee Stars,” Arocho said, echoing the players’ frustration. “ You won’t use them for clout chasing. Stop the excuses.”
Bahati has tried to defend himself, saying that CAF rules barred him from entering the Harambee Stars dressing room after the match. He also claimed to having engagements when called by FKF deputy president McDonald Mariga.
Still, the KSh 1 million is undelivered. And with Arocho’s voice added to the mix, Bahati’s excuses are ringing hollow to many Kenyans online.Failing to honor such a pledge isn’t just about money; it’s about respect.
Bahati has built his reputation not just on music but on his reality TV-style lifestyle with Diana Marua. Drama has often fueled his relevance, but this controversy cuts deeper.
Arocho is respected across Kenya for his authenticity in football matters. His call-out adds weight and credibility to what might otherwise have been dismissed as social media banter.
The risk is that this narrative cements him as someone who plays with the emotions of fans for attention.
The Harambee Stars are moving forward with World Cup qualifiers, but the Bahati pledge is now a running joke that won’t go away until it’s resolved.
The ball is in Bahati’s court: he can quietly hope the uproar dies down or, better yet, make good on his promise publicly and reclaim his reputation.
For now, Fred Arocho’s has extended an olive branch until Wednesday 20th for the pledge to have been delivered.