Eric Omondi to Tanzania Artists: Presidents Come & Go, Stand with the People!

Kenyan comedian and human rights activist Eric Omondi has issued a sharp warning to his fellow artists in Tanzania. He advised them to distance themselves from political alignment and instead focus on the masses—their fans.

Omondi emphasised that while political leaders are temporary, the artistic platform and the people who support it are permanent.

This urgent advice follows a period of significant backlash aimed at Tanzanian music stars.

The Rising Tide of Fan Discontent

Tanzanian artists have faced major boycotts and public scrutiny since early November 2025.

The backlash stemmed from their perceived support of President Samia Suluhu's government amidst rising political tensions.

Fans grew increasingly angry over the artists’ silence or alignment with the government, especially after alleged atrocities occurred.

Some artists were reportedly forced to change their music during performances because they had not spoken out.

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Critics argued that those in influential positions should tread carefully, knowing their followers rely on them for guidance.

The consequences for those perceived as pro-government were severe. Fans initiated boycotts, unfollowed major stars like Diamond Platnumz, and even vandalised the businesses of artists such as Shilole and Billnass.

Presidents Are Temporary, Art Is Forever

Omondi stressed the need for artists to recognize the finite nature of political power. He reminded his colleagues that presidents have terms that end, whereas true artistic influence endures.

“To my artist friends in Tanzania, I’d like to tell them to stand firm. President Samia will finish her 5-year term and go, but you, you will remain an artist.”

He pointed out historical examples: former leaders like Kikwete, Magufuli, and Mwinyi are gone. Similarly, US presidents like Obama and Biden, or Kenyan presidents like Uhuru and Moi, left office.

"Diamond atakuwa Diamond, Kikwete alienda hayupo tena. Magufuli Mungu alichukua baba yetu hayuko na sisi... lakini Diamond yupo kuanzia 2006 bado yupo."

Omondi suggested that artists must use their sense ("akili kichwani"). He noted that the highest office is only 10 years.

Even the current president, he implied, will eventually leave office. Therefore, artists should choose to "stand with the people".

Overcoming Fear and Speaking Out

Omondi acknowledged that many artists do not want to support the citizens but are often too afraid of the government. He mentioned that some figures, like Chid Benz, have openly admitted fear of speaking badly about the administration.

However, Omondi urged them not to live through fear. He stated that when injustice occurs, artists must open their mouths and speak out.

"Open your mouth when there's injustice, speak about it, speak for people because kuna reason Mungu amekupa hiyo platform."

He insisted that God gave artists their influential platforms for a reason. Influencers, including artists, have a role to be expressive and vocal.

They can protect their people either through their music or by publicly taking a stand. Critics believe that artistic freedom should always take precedence over political loyalty.