Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, has pledged to compensate DJ Pinto Cahill after the entertainer publicly complained about allegedly going unpaid for performing at several Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) events.
The dispute came to light after DJ Cahill shared a detailed account on social media, claiming he had provided entertainment services at multiple ODM rallies and party functions but was either not paid at all or only reimbursed for transport expenses.
According to the DJ, the events in question included the Ragumo rally in Kisumu, the Nairobi SDC event, the Bondo Kango Ka Jaramogi Party Leader declaration ceremony, a fundraising event at Nyanya Golf Club, an aspirants’ meeting at Royal Switz, and the Kisumu Wabiro mega rally.
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He further alleged that for rallies held in Migori and Narok counties, he only received Ksh7,000, which he said was intended solely to cover transport costs.
In an emotional appeal directed at Jalang’o, DJ Cahill expressed frustration over what he described as unsuccessful efforts to secure payment for his services.
“It’s not right at all, Jalas. Please answer my calls. Since the rally, I have been trying to reach you, but it seems you are too busy to communicate. Please, boss, pay me. I have a large family to take care of, my siblings need school fees, and I also have bills to settle,” he wrote on Facebook.
The DJ also accused the legislator of failing to adequately compensate entertainers who perform at political gatherings.
“Stop this nonsense and unfair treatment you are putting people through. Why is it always so difficult for you to pay DJs after they have entertained your crowds?” he questioned.
Adding to his concerns, DJ Cahill revealed that his work equipment was damaged while performing at one of the political rallies.
“My laptop was damaged by the sun during that rally, and now it is broken. I can’t work because of it. No one seems to care,” he lamented.
Responding to the allegations, Jalang’o confirmed that he had spoken to the DJ and stated that Cahill attended the events voluntarily without any formal engagement or contract from ODM.
“I have spoken to DJ Cahill regarding his claims that ODM owes him payment for services rendered at several rallies. According to him, he voluntarily attended and performed at these events without being formally engaged or contracted by anyone from the party,” Jalang’o said.
The MP noted that the situation should serve as a lesson to artists, entertainers, and service providers on the importance of securing formal agreements before offering professional services.
“This serves as an important lesson for artists and service providers: never undertake professional work without a clear agreement in place. Always ensure there is a contract outlining the scope of work and payment terms, and where possible, secure payment before delivering your services,” he added.
Jalang’o emphasized that professional engagements require proper arrangements to avoid disputes and misunderstandings.
Despite maintaining that there was no formal contract between the DJ and ODM, the legislator said he would still facilitate payment to resolve the matter.
“Professional engagements require professional arrangements to avoid misunderstandings and disputes. All said, I’ll get him the money he has requested,” he concluded.
The development has sparked discussion online, with many Kenyans weighing in on the importance of written contracts and clear payment agreements between artists and event organizers.