VIDEO: Jaguar heckled with 'wantam' chants during Mataha festival

Singer-turned-politician Jaguar found himself at the centre of a politically charged moment after facing anti-government chants during his performance at the Mataha Festival in Thika.

Among the performers was Jaguar, born Charles Njagua. However, his appearance on stage drew a mixed reaction from sections of the audience.

As he stepped forward and attempted to address the crowd, some revellers responded with anti-government chants, briefly creating a tense atmosphere at the venue.

Those in attendance were heard chanting "Wantam" and "Ruto must go" before the musician began his performance.

Despite the reception, Jaguar remained composed and proceeded with his set.

Jaguar almost cries on Stage after the crowd turned his concert to a Wantam rally. pic.twitter.com/YqSwUsPkmS

— Jim Njue (@jimNjue_) June 15, 2026

The popular Kikuyu cultural event was held on Sunday, June 14, at the MKU Pavilion grounds, attracting thousands of revellers who turned up to celebrate Gikuyu heritage through music, culture and entertainment.

The festival featured performances from some of the biggest names in the Kikuyu music industry, with fans enjoying an energetic night of live entertainment.

The phrase "Wantam", meaning "one term", has increasingly been adopted by government critics and supporters of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

The slogan reflects the belief among some political groups that President William Ruto should serve only one term before the 2027 General Election.

He performed his hit song Matapeli, a track known for addressing corruption, political betrayal and social inequality.

The song appeared to resonate with many members of the audience because of its strong social message, turning them against the former Starehe lawmaker.

One of the track's most memorable lines highlights the economic struggles facing ordinary citizens while those in positions of power continue to prosper: "Bei ya unga inapanda wakati mahindi inaoza kwa shamba... Maskini atazidi kuwa maskini, naye tajiri atajirike zaidi."

The incident comes amid heightened political tensions across the country, with several figures perceived to be close to the government increasingly facing criticism from sections of the public.

Jaguar entered politics in 2017 after winning the Starehe parliamentary seat. He later aligned himself with President Ruto's political camp during the 2022 elections. In 2024, he was appointed a commissioner at the Commission on Administrative Justice.

Social media users reacted with mixed opinions.

"The fact that he's singing 'kigeugeu' and they're chanting 'one term' is so sensational," wrote one.