Gospel musician Karangu wa Muraya has issued a public apology following widespread backlash over his comments on the Social Health Authority (SHA) during a meeting with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
Muraya had previously stated that SHA paid KSh 460,000 towards his brother’s hospital bill at Karira Mission Hospital in Mwea, Kirinyaga County.
The remarks were made during a meeting with vernacular musicians from the Mt Kenya region at the DP’s official residence in Karen on May 23, 2025.
However, after receiving criticism from Kenyans online, Muraya took to social media to express regret for his comments, saying he had been misunderstood and was not paid to endorse the health scheme.
“I want to apologize to all my followers. Some time back, I mentioned SHA just because it had paid some money for my brother who had a huge bill after a road accident,” he wrote.
“I was just giving a true testimony out of excitement, but if my sentiments offended you, please find a place in your heart to forgive me.”
He added that he had received hundreds of insults in his inbox and asked for prayers for his brother, who has been bedridden since February.
Muraya had defended SHA during the meeting with Kindiki, saying Kenyans often ignore government messages unless someone testifies to having benefited.
“Information is power. Sometimes we see the government trying to say that things are working, but the ground does not listen,” he said.
The musician went on to explain that without SHA’s help, he would have had to start raising funds from well-wishers. “I would have started creating WhatsApp groups,” he said.
Muraya maintained that SHA had truly assisted his family and urged critics to stop spreading negativity about the program. He assured the Deputy President of continued support from Mt Kenya musicians and called for more government involvement in supporting the creative industry.
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