Kenyan musician Akothee fiercely responded to critics, including activist Nuru Okanga and others, who labelled her “Akothee ni Malaya” following her viral half-naked performance with Prince Indah at the Watoto Wasoka Festival.
In a fiery Instagram post, Akothee declared, “I’m not a role model to anyone. When you call me to your shows, I will come and open wide my legs,” defending her provocative stage act as artistic expression.
The Akothee viral performance controversy has driven searches for “Akothee viral performance 2025” and “Akothee Prince Indah controversy,”.
” I’m not even a role model to my kids. I’m busy running around securing the lives of my parents. I don’t want to be begging people for the pay bill. I thought she was rich, now see her parents are stuck in the hospital,” Akothee added.
The performance saw Akothee, 43, in a glittery, revealing outfit, delivering a high-energy set with artist Prince Indah, recently honoured with an O.G.W medal. Okanga’s accusation of promoting immorality sparked backlash, with Akothee countering that her role is to entertain, not parent.
The video garnered thousands of views, fueling debates over cultural norms versus artistic freedom. Akothee’s history of bold performances, like her 2023 Kisumu show, has long courted controversy, but her philanthropy through the Akothee Foundation often balances her public image.
Critics, including religious leaders, argue the performance was inappropriate for a youth-focused festival, with others echoing Okanga’s sentiments.
Supporters defend her as a feminist icon pushing boundaries in a conservative society. The controversy mirrors broader tensions in Kenya’s entertainment scene, where artists like Willy Paul face less scrutiny for similar acts.
Festival organisers, responding to backlash, promised stricter content oversight. Akothee’s unapologetic stance, coupled with her 2.5 million Instagram followers, has kept the Akothee viral performance trending, with searches for “Akothee Watoto Wasoka video” spiking.
Okanga, known for targeting political figures like President William Ruto, shifted focus to cultural critique, drawing accusations of hypocrisy.
Akothee’s defenders highlight her contributions, like funding education for orphans, arguing that the focus should be on her positive impact. The debate has sparked discussions on gender double standards, with women artists facing harsher judgment than their male counterparts.
The Akothee viral performance controversy has divided public opinion, with fans rallying behind her artistic freedom. Organisers face pressure to balance creative expression with family-friendly standards, as searches for “Akothee Prince Indah performance backlash” grow.
Akothee at Criticspic.twitter.com/ExSfL3vyWb
— The Nairobi Times (@TheNairobiTimez) August 13, 2025
