Former nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has stood by her political message after veteran broadcaster Fred Obachi Machoka ordered security officers to remove her from the stage during his 50th anniversary celebration in Nairobi.
In a Facebook post on Sunday, October 11, Orwoba appeared to double down on the message, writing: “Good Morning! Lazima nikumbushe Uncle mambo ni WANTAM!”
Her response followed a confrontation at Ulinzi Sports Complex on Saturday, October 10, where Machoka was celebrating five decades in broadcasting at the Machoka @50 Grand Concert.
A video of the incident circulating online showed Orwoba on the main stage making gestures associated with the ‘Wantam’ slogan before Machoka interrupted her and called on security officers to escort her away.
“Please, security, toa huyu msichana hapa. You cannot screw up my job,” Machoka said in the recording.
“Next time you are with your uncle, utajua hapa huna neno, utatii. Imagine you will go out,” he added.
Security officers subsequently escorted Orwoba from the stage as spectators watched the exchange.
Her social media post has drawn renewed attention to the incident, which interrupted the celebrations marking Machoka’s long career in the media industry.
Machoka, popularly known as Uncle Fred, is best known for his long-running Roga Roga programme, which focuses on rhumba music.
His anniversary concert attracted politicians, entertainers and other public figures.
Congolese rhumba stars Koffi Olomide and Mbilia Bel, alongside Sam Fan Thomas and other musicians, featured on the line-up.
Orwoba previously served as a nominated senator under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).