Ruth wa Mum is a renowned Akorino gospel musician celebrated for her vibrant spiritual songs and commanding presence within the Kikuyu gospel community. Known for her distinctive turban and powerful vocals, she has grown a loyal fan base both within and outside the Akorino faith. 

Her influence in religious and cultural circles has elevated her to a significant position among gospel performers in Kenya. However, her recent involvement in a politically charged event has brought her into an unanticipated spotlight, drawing intense criticism from the public.

The Visit That Sparked Controversy

The controversy began when Ruth wa Mum, alongside several other Kikuyu gospel artists, visited Deputy President Kithure Kindiki at his official residence. What was presumably intended as a formal, cordial engagement quickly took a political turn in the eyes of the public. The optics of gospel musicians engaging with high-ranking government officials during a period of growing political dissatisfaction did not sit well with many Kenyans.

The group was perceived to be aligning themselves with political leadership at a time when artists are expected to remain neutral, especially on issues affecting ordinary citizens. Online users interpreted the visit as a betrayal of the people's voice, accusing the artists of being out of touch with the struggles faced by their fans.

Public Backlash and Political Reactions

Following the visit, online criticism grew rapidly. Social media platforms were flooded with comments questioning the integrity and independence of gospel artists who are often viewed as moral beacons in society. This culminated in public rebuke by a political leader who expressed disapproval of the musicians’ actions, warning them of a possible boycott by fans unless they apologized.

The matter snowballed, turning into a national discussion on the relationship between faith-based artists and political figures. The backlash underscored the expectation that musicians, especially those in gospel ministry, should remain apolitical or exercise caution when engaging with political personalities.

Ruth wa Mum’s Public Apology

Facing the mounting public pressure, Ruth wa Mum issued an emotional apology. Addressing her followers and critics on social media, she humbly pleaded for forgiveness. Her words reflected a deep sense of remorse: "My people, forgive me. Please stop insulting me. I am so sorry that I did it, and I will never do it again. I am truly sorry. God, please also forgive me."

Her apology was met with a spectrum of responses. Some fans acknowledged her humility and urged others to let go of the anger, while others insisted on a more public and expressive act of contrition. A few suggested that she should record a video using the viral phrase “Wantam,” a symbolic gesture of apology that has gained cultural significance in recent Kenyan discourse.

The Broader Implication

Ruth wa Mum's situation sheds light on the fine line that public figures—especially faith leaders and artists—must walk when engaging in political spaces. In a country where political sentiments run deep, any perceived alliance or endorsement can quickly spiral into reputational damage.

This incident serves as a cautionary tale for other gospel artists, emphasizing the need for transparency and discretion when dealing with political figures. It also raises questions about the expectations placed on artists in Kenya’s evolving socio-political environment, where public image and trust are paramount.