‘Shida ni gani?’ Oga Obinna defends influencers paid to campaign for govt
By William Muthama, September 10, 2026Comedian and YouTuber Oga Obinna has come to the defence of influencers amid a growing debate surrounding claims that some have been paid to campaign for the government.
Speaking about the conversation on Thursday, September 10, 2026, Obinna questioned why influencers should be criticised for taking up paid work to promote the government.
‘Kama hao influencers wamelipwa wakampaignie government, shida ni? Si ni influencers? Si ni kazi yao?’ he asked.
Obinna argued that people should not be angry with others simply because they are earning from their work, saying anyone who disagrees is free to pursue their own opportunities.
He also compared the criticism to questioning professionals who work for the government, asking whether people would tell teachers or police officers to quit simply because they are employed by the state.
Obinna points to a double standard
The comedian further pointed out what he described as a double standard in the criticism of influencers.
He questioned why the same people would have no problem with influencers openly supporting opposition figures such as James Orengo, Babu Owino, Rigathi Gachagua or Fred Matiang’i, but criticise them when they support the government.
‘However, if the same influencers waanze kupigia Sifuna debe, Babu Owino debe, Riggy G debe, Matiangi debe, heee, now it is the right thing to do,’ Obinna said.
‘Let’s stop being like that. People are very entitled about unnecessary things,’ he added.
He urged Kenyans to focus on their own work and allow others to pursue their opportunities without unnecessary criticism.
‘Kila mtu ajipange,’ Obinna said.
Obinna then shifted his focus to what he described as a wider culture of entitlement, urging people to concentrate on creating their own opportunities.
Now everyone should use themselves. Everyone should put themselves out there,’ he said.
Obinna said everyone has their own path and should focus on building their career, talent and opportunities rather than waiting for others to open doors for them.