Renowned Kenyan gospel musician and activist Reuben Kigame has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 General Election, stating he is actively preparing to be on the ballot. Kigame, who was barred from the 2022 presidential race due to political party technicalities, views his renewed bid as a continuation of an unfinished journey.
Speaking during an interview with one of Kenya’s media outlets, Kigame confirmed that he will run under a political party this time, having previously attempted to run as an independent candidate in 2022.
Kigame argued that Kenya’s four previous presidents, and the current president, had physical sight but have not adequately resolved the country’s major challenges. “Maybe it is time to have vision and not mere sight,” asserted Kigame. “I hope that I will be able to prove to the world what Shakespeare wrote in King Lear, ‘that a man may see how this world goes without eyes’.”
The veteran gospel artiste and media owner has been a consistent voice in Kenya's civic and governance discourse. He submitted a memorandum on the 2023-2024 Financial Bill to Parliament that sparked the Gen Z-led protests in Kenya, offering short-term, mid-term, and long-term solutions to Kenya's economic crisis.
He has argued that the country's main problem is not a lack of money or resources, but "mismanagement, looting, and a lack of humanity from leaders.”
Kigame further added that independent institutions like the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), Parliament, and Judiciary often lack true independence, acting instead as tools for political maneuvering.
A strong proponent of integrity, Kigame publicly criticized the construction of a church within the State House compound, stating that such resources should address urgent needs. "I would not allow the construction of a church at the State House. In principle, it is wrong. Economically it is wrong, in terms of policy it is wrong, in terms of Christianity itself it is wrong, because the president is not the bishop of a country and State House is not the religious centre of a country," said Kigame.
He also recently filed a petition at the High Court seeking to privately prosecute senior security officials, including Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, over alleged crimes against humanity during the Gen Z protests of 2024 and 2025, which he described as a "widespread and systematic attack by state agents".
Kigame challenged the manipulation of the church in politics, citing instances where church leaders have been blindsided by money and partisan politics, thereby losing their role as the "conscience of the nation" and their prophetic voice. He believes the church should be non-partisan and a reconciler.
Kigame said his campaign philosophy will be built around the pillars of Humanity, Justice and Ethics insisting that his campaign will center on ethical governance and values-based leadership, advocating for a shift in how leaders are evaluated to prioritize character. Kigame envisions a government formed correctly, following the Constitution and elevating the lives of the people, prioritizing professionalism, and operating with a lean cabinet.
“My presidency, given the mandate by the people of Kenya, is going to be disruptive. I am a disruptor. We want to change the way politics and leadership is Kenya has been done for a long time and you can trust me to bring the disruption,” said Kigame.
Born on March 13, 1966, Kigame lost his sight at the age of three due to a severe illness. This personal experience has made him a passionate advocate for the rights of people living with disabilities, founding the "Seeing Hands Ministry" to support them.
Kigame's public profile is deeply intertwined with his identity as a gospel singer. He is a renowned Kenyan gospel musician who has released over 20 albums, with hit songs becoming staples in Kenyan worship services. His music not only promotes Christian values but also speaks to social issues, advocating for integrity, peace, and justice in society. He has mentored young artists through his music academy and aims to be Kenya's "singing president". Beyond music, Kigame is an author who has written on spirituality, governance, and personal development. He also worked as a radio presenter and journalist with Family Radio.
