Mugithi star Samuel Muchoki, popularly known as Samidoh, has formally left the National Police Service (NPS), bringing an end to a 12-year career in uniform.

The NPS confirmed that it had accepted his resignation, which took effect on July 20, closing the chapter on his role as a police constable and ending plans to prosecute him for alleged desertion.

In his resignation letter, the musician said he was stepping down for personal reasons, chief among them the desire to dedicate himself fully to his flourishing music career.

Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja acknowledged the decision, saying: “He is free to pursue whatever he wishes.”

Samidoh’s exit comes after a turbulent period marked by controversies touching on his private life, politics, and strained relations with his superiors. At one point, the NPS publicly accused him of deserting duty, prompting the service to initiate disciplinary action.

Trouble began when a video surfaced of the singer joining fans in chanting the slogan “wantam” (short for one-term), a rallying cry for critics opposed to President William Ruto’s re-election. Senior police officials viewed this as a violation of regulations barring officers from political activity.

As a result, Samidoh was transferred from the regular police to the Administration Police Anti-Stock Theft Unit in Gilgil, then posted to Baringo. He was also lined up for disciplinary proceedings over absenteeism. Instead, he left for the United States for a series of performances.

Fearing arrest, he sought anticipatory bail at the High Court last month. The court granted his request after learning a warrant of arrest had already been issued. Samidoh argued the charges were politically motivated, insisting that his case was less about desertion and more about his criticism of government.

Court documents revealed that he had in fact received formal travel clearance. A letter signed by Deputy Inspector-General Mathew Kutoh, and later presented in court, allowed him to visit the US from May 20 to June 9, 2025.

Samidoh’s political associations also drew attention. In May, he and several Mt Kenya musicians visited Deputy President Kithure Kindiki at his Karen residence, sparking backlash from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who accused them of betraying the Mt Kenya community. Gachagua even called for a boycott of their music.

Prof. Kindiki, however, defended the artists, noting they had sought government support in dismantling cartels in the creative industry and pushing for fair compensation.

The musician later crossed paths with Gachagua during tours in the United States, before returning to Kenya under the protection of the court-issued bail.

Samidoh now steps away from the police service to concentrate fully on his music, officially closing a contentious chapter in his dual career.