Charisma says he declined the government invitation to perform at this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations after a call from a national agency reached him about a week before the event. Speaking on the Iko Nini podcast aired on Thursday, November 27, 2025, the musician shared that he chose to turn down the offer based on personal principles and ideological differences. The artist, known widely as Fidel Omusula and celebrated under the stage name Charisma, explained that the invitation did not align with what he stands for, which made it impossible for him to accept.
Why Did Charisma Turn Down the Jamhuri Day Performance?
During the podcast, Charisma revealed the moment the request came in and how he arrived at his decision. “I was called like a week ago by a government agency, and they were telling me they want me to perform on Jamhuri Day. I just told them, guys, I do not get how you guys can call me, and it made me think about it, nikarealise ni kwa sababu wanajua a lot of us can be bent,” Charisma said. He viewed the invitation as more than a performance offer, noting that attending such an event would indirectly endorse values and decisions he does not support.
He added that the nature of Jamhuri Day makes participation symbolic, which further strengthened his decision to decline. “For me nilikuwa, hawa watu wako na audacity ya kupick phone na kunipigia. Hawa watu wanajua what I stand for and everything, and kitu kama Jamhuri Day ni an endorsement in a way,” he explained.
Charisma also shared that performing in a space where he disagrees with the ideology of the organizers does not align with his integrity. “Hauwezi kwenda kuperfom mahali mtu hauagree na ideology zake na uende tu uperform,” he stated. He noted that this was not the first time he had been invited to government functions. Still, he has consistently maintained his stance. “Mimi nimeinvitiwa vitu za gava lakini haiwezi, wacha nisote. I do not think it is something that you will ever see me doing,” he added.
What Are His Views on Tanzanian Musicians at State Events?
Charisma also reflected on how some Tanzanian artistes approach state events, expressing disappointment with what he views as a disconnect between them and their fans. He stressed that musicians hold their platforms because of the people who support them, which should guide the decisions they make in public spaces. “I really had a problem with the way Tanzanian artistes went about it, first of all, as musicians we are in these positions because of the people, so to turn my back on those people who support me,” he said.
His remarks underscore an ongoing conversation about artistry, principles, and the responsibility public figures carry when engaging with political or state activities.
By Lucky Anyanje