Former prison warder and outspoken youth activist Cop Shakur has publicly criticised comedian-turned-politician MC Jessy, accusing him of abandoning fellow young Kenyans in pursuit of political ambitions.
The fiery remarks add to the growing debate around youth leadership, political loyalty, and accountability in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
Shakur, who has built a strong online following for his candid commentary on governance and social justice, branded Jessy a “sellout” for rejoining the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party months after previously distancing himself from it.
According to Shakur, the move sends the wrong message to Gen Z and millennial Kenyans who have been vocal about police brutality and alleged extrajudicial killings.
Burial of Elijah Muthoka Sparks Outrage
Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, February 10, Cop Shakur shared emotional posts referencing the burial of Elijah Muthoka, a 17-year-old who was reportedly shot by police while heading home in Roysambu.
Activists have cited the teen’s death as part of a broader pattern of alleged police excesses affecting young people in urban areas.
Shakur posted an image showing Elijah’s coffin draped in the Kenyan flag during the burial ceremony, using the moment to sharply criticise leaders he believes are aligning themselves with an administration that youth activists accuse of presiding over rights violations.
In a strongly worded message directed at MC Jessy, Shakur wrote:
“MC Jessy, the coffin being carried is that of Elijah Muthoka, a 17-year-old who was shot while going home in Roysambu. His mother is a single parent who used to wash clothes for people to educate her son. She had so much faith that one day he would help her get out of poverty. The person you went to worship ordered ruthless killings of young people. Elijah was not even taking part in the protests. If you are an entertainer or an influencer and you decide to sell out, make sure whatever you are selling out for will satisfy you for the rest of your life.”
The post quickly drew reactions from Kenyans online, with many debating the role of celebrities and influencers in politics, especially during a time when young people have been at the forefront of demanding reforms and accountability.
“Wrong to Work with UDA” — Cop Shakur
According to the former officer, it is morally wrong for public figures like Jessy to associate themselves with UDA, a party that civil rights movements have repeatedly criticised over alleged state excesses against Kenyan youth.
Shakur argued that leaders seeking support from young voters must stand firmly on issues affecting them, rather than aligning with power.
Shakur insisted he would never support entertainers-turned-politicians who, in his view, prioritise personal gain over the struggles of ordinary citizens.
He further accused Jessy of “dining” with UDA leaders despite what he described as their role in the deaths of numerous young Kenyans, a claim that reflects sentiments widely expressed by some activists, though government officials have previously defended security operations as lawful.
In the same scathing statement, Shakur added:
” Someone like MC Jessy, who is a comedian,most people, starting with me, will never find him funny again. I can’t laugh at someone’s jokes when he goes to dine with a person who butchered innocent kids. “
Jessy’s Political Journey Under Scrutiny
Shakur’s rant was reportedly triggered by MC Jessy’s recent decision to rejoin the UDA party, months after he had exited while citing favouritism within political ranks.
His return has raised eyebrows among some supporters who had viewed his earlier exit as a sign of independence.
Jessy, who has declared interest in vying for the South Imenti MP seat in the upcoming General Election, was recently among aspiring politicians who visited State House for the UDA party Aspirants Forum, a move seen as a clear signal of his renewed ties with the ruling party.
While Jessy has yet to publicly respond to Shakur’s remarks, the criticism highlights the delicate balancing act facing celebrities entering politics, especially at a time when Kenyan youth are increasingly vocal about governance, justice, and leadership integrity.
Youth Politics and Public Accountability
The exchange underscores a broader national conversation about the role of young leaders, entertainers, and influencers in shaping political discourse.
With Gen Z emerging as a powerful civic voice, particularly on social media, public figures are facing growing pressure to align their political choices with the expectations of their audiences.
As Kenya edges closer to the next General Election, debates like these are likely to intensify, with youth voters expected to play a decisive role in determining the country’s political direction.
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