NAIROBI, Kenya — In a recent interview, Kenyan singer Kevin Bahati has finally addressed the controversy surrounding his highly publicized promise to donate KSh 1 million to the Harambee Stars if they won their crucial African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 match against Morocco on Saturday, 9 August, a pledge that has yet to be fulfilled.
Speaking candidly with fellow gospel artist DK Kwenye Beat at his home on Thursday, Bahati expressed frustration, alleging that there were attempts to sabotage the process and turn it into unnecessary drama.
The artist, who had pledged vocal support for the team from his fans online, argued that the conversation around the donation had been exaggerated and misrepresented.
“Kuna watu wana sabotage hii process ya mimi kupea Harambee Stars hii one million. Ndio ikue maneno mingi maneno mingi,” he said, asserting that the issue had been blown out of proportion.
“One million is too small for me”
The Adhiambo hitmaker further insisted that KSh 1 million was not a significant amount for him, describing it as something that “should not cause such noise” on social media.
“Hii ni one million, two million, 3 million. One million is too small for me. Hiyo si pesa tunasumbuana nayo kila saa online. Hii ni kitu kidogo. Avoid the people who think one million is a lot of money. That is a poor mindset,” Bahati stated firmly.
He went on to explain that he had made efforts to follow up on the pledge, including making calls, but that certain unspecified matters had prevented the completion of the process.
“I tried to make calls. Vitu zingine sitaki kuongea kwa public. Hiyo kelele mmepiga online sijapenda. Mbona hao vijana wenyewe (players) wasijipange niende?,” he questioned, appearing to shift part of the responsibility to the players themselves.
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Despite the backlash from fans and online critics, Bahati reiterated that humility should not be mistaken for weakness.
“DK, Mimi nakuanga sawa. Watu wasijaribu humility yangu,” he told DK, making it clear he was displeased with how the issue had been handled publicly.
The singer’s explanation adds another layer to the ongoing debate around his promise to the national football team. While some may see his statement as a clarification, others might believe it raises more questions about his accountability and follow-through.
As the conversation continues, many will be keen to see whether Bahati will eventually deliver on his KSh 1 million pledge or if the matter will remain a controversial chapter in his career.