Roy Smith Mwatia, popularly know as Rufftone, is a man that wears many hats. He is a celebrated gospel artist, fine art artist, founder of Ruffwear, South Korean Good Will Ambassador and an aspiring politician.
His music career spans of over 20 years. His songs include; Mungu Baba, Mwikulu, Tsinyanga Tsiwere, Prodigal Daughter just to mention a few. But he says it has not been easy. There were both challenges and gains. “We had issues with piracy and allocation of revenue to the artist.” He disclosed. “We have fought for musicians in Kenya to be paid their royalties equitably and we are happy that the President ascended to the bill and also Safaricom obliged to the skiza tune payment increment.” He also appealed to the local media to show case 90% of local content. His latest music project has been a collaboration between his wife Krystal featuring Asana called Usiniache.
Rufftone revealed that he will be running for the Senatorial seat of Nairobi County in the August 2022 elections under the United Democratic Party (UDA). “I am an activists and have been passionate about political injustice and I decided to go for a seat that best describes this attributes.” He said. “The senator’s work is to protect interest of County Governments, determine allocation of revenue and ensure 100% implementation of devolution, basically a defender.” He added. He hopes if elected he will be able to change the narrative that politicians are corrupt by carrying out his senate duties and fighting corruption.
Once the party primaries are conducted, Rufftone hopes to run vigorous campaigns and hopes for the residents of Nairobi to elect him as their next senator. “I am in the process of registering the name Rufftone and incorporate in my campaigns because it resonates with the people ” He said.
Rufftone has been doing campus tours around the Country to educate young people on leadership and morals. “The young people in campus are the opinion makers and in two to three year they will be in office making decisions. If we don’t teach them of good morals and drill Christ in them now, then we will have a crop of bad leadership in the coming Years.” He explained.
His advise to young people as we approach the election date is to maintain peace and never allow politicians to use them or divide them between tribes or class. “Young people should remember that there is only one Kenya. Exercise national cohesion and integration.” He said. “Our differences in tribes and languages is our beauty.” He concluded.
