Nairobi, Kenya — Christina Shusho, a famend gospel musician from Tanzania, has sparked a vigorous dialogue in Kenya with the discharge of a teaser for her new tune titled “Zakayo.” Known for her large following in East Africa, Shusho’s newest observe delves right into a narrative a couple of biblical character that’s resonating with modern political commentary in Kenya.
In her tune, sung in Swahili, Shusho recounts the story of “Zakayo, the chief of tax collectors and a wealthy man. He sought to see what kind of person Jesus was…”
This determine is healthier identified within the English Bible as Zacchaeus, who’s depicted as a grasping tax collector who climbed a tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus.
The tune has gained extra consideration resulting from its perceived allusion to Kenya’s President William Ruto. Some Kenyans have playfully speculated that the tune could be referencing Ruto, who has colloquially been nicknamed “Zakayo.” This nickname stems from Ruto’s current implementation of a number of new taxes, alongside will increase in current ones, following his election in August 2022.
These fiscal insurance policies have led to a level of unpopularity amongst Kenyans, notably those that really feel that Ruto has deviated from his marketing campaign guarantees to help the “hustlers” or financially struggling populace.
The comparability to Zacchaeus has not been formally acknowledged by Shusho because the supposed theme of her tune.
However, the timing and lyrics have led to vigorous debate and discussions throughout varied social media platforms in Kenya. This buzz underscores the highly effective position music and artists play in East African society, the place lyrics typically intersect with social, non secular, and political themes.
Christina Shusho’s “Zakayo” is thus greater than only a tune; it is a cultural commentary that displays the advanced interaction between superstar affect and political discourse within the area.
Whether supposed or not, Shusho’s music continues to encourage conversations that transcend boundaries and provoke thought amongst her huge viewers.
https://www.africanexponent.com/east-african-gospel-star-christina-shusho-stirs-controversy-in-kenya-with-new-song/
