Popular Kenyan rapper Toxic Lyrikali is facing a firestorm of backlash following a controversial performance at State House, Nairobi.

The performance, which took place on Saturday, August 9, was part of an empowerment programme hosted by President William Ruto.

The event saw the distribution of various business tools to young people, including motorbikes and public address systems.

The Controversial Endorsement

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Toxic, who is celebrated for hits such as "Chinja" and "Backbencher," was among the artists invited to entertain the attendees.

However, a video clip of his performance later surfaced on social media, sparking a heated debate. The footage shows Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie leading Toxic onto the stage and strategically positioning him in front of President Ruto.

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Kiarie then instructed the rapper to endorse Ruto's second term. While Toxic initially continued with his performance, he was called back by the MP and told to say "tutam" (a colloquial play on the words "two terms").

READ MORE: Watch: Samidoh Leads "Wantam" Chants at Nairobi Homecoming Concert

Toxic complied, greeted the president, and later posed for a photo with him. This action did not sit well with many fans who saw it as a betrayal of his brand.

Toxic later hinted at being coerced, stating on social media, "Ground ni ile ile. Niseme one tam akiwa apo nipotezwe," which suggests he feared being blacklisted had he not complied.

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Fan Backlash and Public Disapproval

Fans were quick to react, with many expressing their disappointment. The comments section of the now-viral video was flooded with messages from users who felt the rapper had compromised his integrity.

  • puritytoo_: "Mimi si backbencher tena, dere shukisha!"

  • yn_b.ch3.s._: "His career will end fast, like Sean MMG’s."

  • misssharz14: "In such places, you can’t find someone with real talent like Bien and Khaligraph Jones."

  • billy_kid_sam: "Tuna wamark one by one."

While some attempted to defend him, suggesting he was just at work, the general consensus online was one of public disapproval, with many questioning the long-term impact on his career.

Another Controversy: The Obinna Show Incident

Adding to his recent troubles, Toxic also faced controversy this past week after he reportedly refused to appear on Oga Obinna’s show.

Toxic Lyricali

According to Obinna, the rapper declined the invitation because he was looking for a "more serious platform."

This decision has further fueled a public discussion about the rapper’s professional conduct and public image, with the two incidents collectively suggesting a pattern of questionable decisions at a time when he is already facing significant public scrutiny.