Kenyan rapper and activist Octopizzo has ignited a heated national conversation after questioning why politicians never protest over delayed salaries — unlike professionals in essential sectors such as health and education.
In a thought-provoking post shared on social media, the Kibera-born artist challenged the fairness and accountability of Kenya’s public service. He asked why Members of Parliament, Senators, and Members of County Assembly never stage demonstrations when their salaries are delayed, even as doctors, teachers, and university lecturers frequently take to the streets over unpaid dues.
“It is worth noting that we have never witnessed politicians protesting over delayed pay or unpaid benefits,” he wrote. “Why should ordinary citizens and public servants suffer such challenges, while leaders remain insulated from the hardships facing the people they represent?”
Public Reactions Highlight Growing Frustration
Octopizzo’s comments quickly went viral, resonating with many Kenyans who expressed anger over the perceived double standards in the country’s labor landscape. While essential service providers often face salary delays and broken promises, political leaders appear to enjoy uninterrupted financial privileges.
Recurring Labor Struggles in Key Sectors
His remarks come amid persistent labor crises affecting Kenya’s health and education sectors. Over the years, doctors and nurses have repeatedly staged nationwide strikes over delayed salaries, poor working conditions, and unfulfilled Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs).
Notably, in 2017, Kenya endured a 100-day doctors’ strike followed by a 150-day nurses’ strike, both of which paralyzed healthcare delivery. More recently, medical interns have protested over delayed postings and unpaid stipends, worsening an already strained health system.
In the education sector, public university lecturers remain embroiled in a standoff with the government over salary arrears and benefits. As of late October 2025, their strike had entered its fifth week, affecting learning in over 40 public universities nationwide. Union leaders are demanding the release of Ksh 7.9 billion owed under a previous CBA, while the government maintains that the amount is significantly lower.
A Reflection of Inequality and Accountability Gaps
Octopizzo’s remarks underscore growing public discontent over the unequal treatment of workers across different sectors. The sharp contrast between the struggles of essential workers and the financial comfort of political leaders has reignited discussions about leadership ethics, equity, and social justice in Kenya.
As strikes continue to disrupt key public services, many Kenyans are echoing Octopizzo’s call for a more accountable and empathetic leadership that shares in the challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
