Kenyan rapper and entrepreneur Henry Ohanga, widely known as Octopizzo, has raised concerns about the state of civic education in Kenya, expressing his frustration over what he sees as a growing threat to democracy.
The award-winning artist used his platform to criticize the government’s actions, particularly condemning the criminalization of civic education, a vital tool for empowering citizens to understand their rights and responsibilities.
As a socially conscious figure, Octopizzo has consistently addressed significant national issues. In his latest statement, he firmly denounced the government’s interference, stating, “I strongly condemn the criminalization of civic education through state kidnappings, as it undermines fundamental rights and weakens our democracy.” His message highlights the dangers of state actions that restrict civic education, which he believes is critical to preserving democratic principles.
Octopizzo also questioned the state of Kenya’s democracy, linking the erosion of democratic values to the opposition’s cooperation with the ruling government. He asked pointedly, “Have we abandoned the principles of democracy, or did this begin when the opposition joined forces with the government, leaving the people f****d?” His remark reflects the concerns of many Kenyans who feel that the merger has weakened the opposition’s role in holding the government accountable, leaving citizens without proper representation.
Known for addressing both social and political issues, Octopizzo’s call for accountability strikes a chord with those who believe that civic education is essential for enabling citizens to engage in democratic processes. By targeting civic education, the government may be infringing on citizens’ rights and undermining the nation’s democratic foundation.
