Why Bahati Sees Himself as ‘the Raila’ of Kenyan Music Industry

Controversial Kenyan musician Bahati has once again sparked debate online. He recently compared himself to the late former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, just days after the political titan’s death.

The singer posted a message on his Instagram story suggesting the Kenyan music scene would be dull without him. The statement came amid a period of national mourning for the influential political figure.

The Instagram Claim

Bahati shared an image on his Instagram story with a bold declaration. He accompanied the post with a clip of his 2021 rap single, 'Fikra Za Bahati'.

The message, written in Swahili, translates to a direct comparison with the deceased politician.

“Mimi Ndio Raila Wa Hii Music Industry... Ningekua Siko Kungenyamaza Saana”

This translates as, "I am the Raila of this music industry... if I were not here, it would be very boring."

The comparison links his impact on the music industry to Mr Odinga's decades-long influence on Kenyan politics.

Raila Odinga's Consequential Legacy

The comparison to Raila Odinga is significant. Mr Odinga, who passed away on 15 October 2025 at the age of 80, was a towering figure in Kenyan political history.

He served as the Prime Minister of Kenya from 2008 to 2013. Political analysts referred to his death as the "most consequential political death since Jomo Kenyatta".

READ TOO: Raila Tribute: Why Gen Zs Want a New 80-Shilling Coin with His Portrait

Many considered him to be the country's most consequential leader of all time. President William Ruto described him as a "once-in-a-generation leader" and a "giant of democracy".

Mr Odinga's life was defined by a long fight for justice and multi-party democracy in the nation.

Diving into 'Fikra Za Bahati'

The background song for Bahati's post, 'Fikra Za Bahati', is a rap track. Bahati released the song in June 2021. It was the lead single from his album, Love Like This.

In the song, Bahati provides a monologue about his view of the world. The lyrics focus on his life story, his musical journey, and his growth as an artist.

The track addresses controversial topics. These included subtle jabs at other Kenyan musicians, including Sauti Sol's record label and rapper Khaligraph Jones.

A History of Political Involvement

This is not the first time Bahati has openly engaged with the former Prime Minister.

In 2022, Bahati released the song 'Fire'. The music video featured a cameo appearance by Raila Odinga, where the politician was seen chanting the song’s refrain.

Bahati has also been involved in politics himself. In 2022, he ran as a parliamentary candidate for the Mathare constituency. He contested the election on a Jubilee Party ticket, which was part of the Azimio coalition led by Mr Odinga. Bahati eventually came third in the election.