Eric Omondi Urges Christina Shusho to Release ‘Zakayo’ Video: A Gospel Anthem with Political Undertones
Kenyan comedian-turned-philanthropist Eric Omondi recently made headlines as he urged gospel singer Christina Shusho to drop the highly anticipated video for her song ‘Zakayo’ during his visit to Tanzania. In a video shared on Shusho’s X account, Omondi was seen rubbing shoulders with the acclaimed musician, sparking excitement among fans.
Amidst the light-hearted banter captured in the video, with Shusho jesting about Omondi’s choice of footwear, the anticipation for the visual rendition of ‘Zakayo’ continues to build. This Swahili gospel anthem draws inspiration from the biblical narrative of Zacchaeus, the tax collector who famously climbed a sycamore tree to catch a glimpse of Jesus passing by.
Through her song, Shusho masterfully weaves the tale of Zacchaeus to convey themes of repentance, transformation, and the profound impact of encountering the divine. Despite dropping the audio version of ‘Zakayo’ on April 24, 2024, fans eagerly await the accompanying music video.
What adds an intriguing layer to the buzz surrounding ‘Zakayo’ is its resonance within the Kenyan socio-political landscape. The nickname ‘Zakayo’ holds significant symbolism, particularly in reference to Kenya’s President William Ruto. Coined by Kenyans in May 2023, the moniker alludes to Ruto’s controversial tax policies, likening him to the biblical tax collector who sought redemption.
President Ruto himself addressed the epithet during the recent Labour Day celebrations, emphasizing his commitment to governance despite the association with taxation. His resilience in the face of the ‘Zakayo the tax collector’ nickname underscores the complexity of political discourse intertwined with societal perceptions.
As anticipation mounts for the release of the ‘Zakayo’ video, the convergence of gospel music with political undertones offers a compelling narrative reflective of contemporary Kenyan society. Through Shusho’s melodious rendition and Omondi’s playful encouragement, the song transcends mere entertainment, resonating with audiences on spiritual and societal levels alike.
