The director of the National Council for Arts and Culture Development (NACADA) sparked controversy after suggesting gospel artist Ringtone should seek rehabilitation, prompting the musician to dismiss the claim as a joke.
Ringtone's recent online activity, including public critiques of Willy Paul, raised concerns about his mental state. When the NACADA director reportedly called for rehabilitation, the artist responded by downplaying the accusation, stating the director's role as a comedian makes such claims absurd.
Chipukeezy, the NACADA director, clarified in a statement: "Ringtone is Ringtone. Artistic expression varies. He has that one element of being stubborn. He might have a message he is trying to pass but he is doing it wrongly. Let him be. Maybe we need to sit down and ask what is he trying to tell us in gospel? He has a point regardless of being ratchet so let’s not just attack him. When you go to rehab, I am the NACADA."
The exchange highlights tensions between artistic freedom and public perception. While Ringtone's provocative style has drawn criticism, Willy Paul has not publicly addressed the accusations. The situation underscores ongoing debates about accountability in Kenyan gospel music.
