NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenyan hip-hop artist Henry Ohanga, popularly known as Octopizzo, has officially declared his intention to run for the Kibra Parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election, positioning himself as part of a new generation of leaders seeking to challenge Kenya’s political status quo.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, November 4, the award-winning musician confirmed his name will be on the ballot, responding to a supporter who urged him to “continue Raila Odinga’s legacy of social justice.”
“I completely understand, and we will continue to mourn; every undemocratic act will always remind us of him. I have heard your request, and inshallah you will see my name on the ballot in Kibra,” Octopizzo stated.
The announcement follows his recent commentary on the shifting political landscape after the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, whom he described as the pillar that once unified both opposition and government politics.
“Raila Odinga steps back, and the whole system shakes. ODM is kind of confused, opposition is scattered, and even the government looks lost,” he said earlier this week. “Turns out many weren’t leaders; they were just echoing Baba for tribal applause and fake validation.”
Octopizzo said the vacuum left by Odinga’s absence had exposed the fragility of Kenya’s political leadership, arguing that the moment calls for a new generation of young, fearless, and values-driven leaders.
“This is the moment for young, fearless leaders to rise, not followers in designer suits pretending to be brave. Kenya deserves integrity, courage, and delivery — creative leadership, not recycled politics. We don’t need more politicians. We need leaders — uncompromising, unbought, unafraid,” he declared.
Known for his activism and social outreach in Kibra, Octopizzo has been a vocal advocate for youth empowerment, slum upgrading, and creative industry development. His entry into politics is seen by some analysts as part of a broader generational shift toward issue-based leadership rooted in community service.
If elected, Octopizzo would follow in the footsteps of other entertainers who have transitioned into politics, including Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor (Jalang’o), who won his seat in 2022.
Other public figures have also hinted at political ambitions ahead of 2027. Musician Stephen Karuga Kimani, popularly known as KRG the Don, recently suggested he would vie for the Nairobi Senatorial seat, while comedian Eric Omondi has been urged by Jalang’o to contest for the Embakasi East parliamentary seat, currently held by Babu Owino, who is reportedly eyeing the Nairobi governorship.
Political observers note that such celebrity bids reflect growing public appetite for alternative leadership outside traditional party hierarchies. However, they caution that credibility and grassroots structures will determine whether entertainers can translate popularity into political success.
