Gachagua Becomes First Kenyan Politician to Earn Millions on TikTok
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made over KSh 2 million from a TikTok livestream on Friday, June 27, becoming the first Kenyan politician to make big money from the platform’s gifting feature.
During the livestream, Gachagua, who was impeached earlier this year, engaged his audience with sharp criticism of President Ruto’s government. His blunt and confrontational style which has made him popular among government critics got a lot of engagement from the viewers.
TikTokers sent Gachagua 78 virtual “lion” gifts during the session. Each lion is worth approximately USD 400 which is KSh 51,800 at the current exchange rate of USD 1 to KSh 129.50. The total value of the gifts was KSh 4,040,400. After TikTok’s 50% commission, Gachagua’s earnings are estimated to be KSh 2,020,200.
This is a first in Kenya’s political and digital media space as Gachagua is the first prominent political figure to monetize TikTok interactions this much.
Neither Gachagua nor TikTok has issued a statement on the earnings but the development has sparked a lot of conversation online about the intersection of politics, social media influence and digital revenue streams.
Analysts say Gachagua’s foray into TikTok could set a precedent for other politicians to find alternative platforms to engage with the public especially with changing media consumption habits and political dynamics in Kenya.
Only time will tell if Gachagua will continue to use social media monetization as a key strategy in his political comeback or advocacy efforts.
Speaking to content creator Kururuia shortly after his arrival, Samidoh addressed the swirling rumors saying his return was due to a personal emergency. “I had a small emergency and so I decided to make a quick run back here to Kenya. I am a law abiding citizen… This is home and I cannot run away from that,” he said.
His return comes after reports the National Police Service had issued a warrant of arrest for him over alleged desertion. Samidoh dismissed the claims saying, “I am peaceful and siogopi mtu [I’m not afraid of anyone]. I have nothing to fear because there is no mistake I have made.”
In the same interview, the singer addressed the growing rumors he was planning to resign from the police force. “I am still working and if I am given a chance I’ll still continue. If things get hard then it is what it is. I have not and I have never thought about resigning,” he said adding, “the process of joining the police was not something I took lightly.”
Samidoh, known for his hit song Toxic Love, reiterated his commitment to his country and professional duties saying he is not shaken by the ongoing scrutiny. “I am not intimidated. Hawawezi kutuuzia uoga [They can’t sell us fear]. We cannot run away from our country, who will we leave it to? I am not shaken,” he said.
As the situation unfolds, it’s unclear whether the police service will take further action or allow the singer to continue serving. Samidoh is expected to travel back to the US after attending to his emergency in Kenya.
Gachagua Becomes First Kenyan Politician to Earn Millions on TikTok