it's actually just a relatively small thing which won't negatively affect anyone in power and is generally considered popular.

It's only popular because of the publicity gained by assassinating the country's longest serving Prime Minister though. I don't think a pop song would have hit the mark.

It absolutely has affected people in power, as there were more than just him linked to the UC church (which his association with was the reason he was the chosen target) and they were removed from their positions. Thise still in power have cut ties.

It is indeed an uncommon response though.