Kenyan musician Kevin Bahati has resurfaced online after facing weeks of criticism for failing to honour his KSh 1 million cash pledge to the Harambee Stars.
The singer had promised the reward during the 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) but has now shifted blame to FKF deputy chairperson McDonald Mariga, even going as far as leaking their private WhatsApp conversations.
The Pledge That Sparked Uproar
Before Harambee Stars’ crucial group-stage clash against Morocco, Bahati and his wife Diana Marua flaunted KSh 1 million in cash on social media. He vowed to hand over the money to the players if they secured victory.
Against the odds, Kenya pulled off a historic win despite being a man down. Almost immediately, attention turned to Bahati’s pledge.
But as weeks passed with no payout, fans, players, and fellow celebrities began accusing the artist of chasing clout.
READ MORE:Bahati's Source of Wealth Revealed
Bahati Explains the Delay
Resurfacing online, Bahati insisted he had no intention of backing out. He flaunted KSh 3 million in cash, claiming the delay was due to personal commitments — including family vacations and brand partnerships — and not dishonesty.
He argued that his repeated attempts to contact Mariga for guidance on how to deliver the money went unanswered.
To back his claim, Bahati shared screenshots of WhatsApp messages allegedly sent to Mariga between August 18 and 24, showing multiple follow-ups without response.
In one message, Bahati wrote:
“Good morning senior, pole I missed your call. I was on set and also on a family vacation… If I delay, allow me to do it next week. Hii yangu ningetumana ni vile Wakenya wanataka proof nikipeana so naomba nijiletee aki.”
CAF Regulations and Missed Timing
Bahati also posted a video dressed in a Harambee Stars jersey, holding what he said was the KSh 1 million cash prize.
He explained that CAF regulations had blocked him from accessing the players in the changing rooms after the Morocco game.
“I’m not very rich, but this gift must go directly into the hands of the players themselves. Because of CAF rules, I couldn’t access them. I’m a man of my word, so let me call Mariga and make arrangements,” Bahati said.
According to him, Mariga suggested the handover could be done during training sessions. Bahati even joked about increasing the pledge:
“Naweza kasirika nilete ikiwa KSh 3 million.”
Fans Still Skeptical
Despite his explanations, scepticism lingers online. Many fans still believe Bahati made the pledge for publicity and are demanding transparency on when the team will finally receive the money.
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