Bahati has finally broken his silence regarding the controversy that erupted over a viral photo of his wife, Diana Marua, with football star Victor Wanyama.
The photo, which first surfaced online in 2020, sparked widespread speculation about Marua’s relationship with Wanyama.
To drum up attention for their new Netflix reality show, The Bahati’s Empire, Bahati reposted the photo on all his social media accounts on June 3, 2024.
The move reignited discussions and prompted Bahati and Marua to address the issue during a June 7 interview with Betty Kyallo on TV 47.
When asked if he had consulted Wanyama before posting the photo, Bahati asserted that he didn’t need to seek permission because of their friendship.
“Why should I ask Wanyama if I can post the photo while it is him and his friend? Let me tell you something. I never said anything. Wanyama and Mariga are my friends. I even campaigned for Mariga in Kibra,” Bahati stated.
Bahati explained that his silence on the matter was often misinterpreted, and he believed that addressing rumors directly could help clear up misunderstandings.
“At times you see rumors, and when you are quiet, they fuel more rumors. But when you show people that it’s normal, they will keep quiet,” he said.
The father of five revealed that his decision to remain silent was also to protect those involved, especially his adopted son. He felt that addressing the allegations publicly would not have been beneficial.
“When the photo was trending a while back, I don’t think Wanyama had a thick skin like I have, and so one day it was trending, and it’s a cruel social media world. It got to him. If I came out to address it, it would not help anyone. I chose to be sarcastic about it and move on,” Bahati explained.
Diana Marua also shared her frustration with the public’s reaction to her friendships. She questioned why people felt entitled to dictate her social associations.
“You don’t want me to have friends? I can’t take pictures with people, or is it because he is a celebrity?” Marua asked.
Victor Wanyama, who is married to actress Serah Teshna and has a son with her, has not publicly commented on the recent developments. Marua credited her husband for teaching her to ignore public opinion and focus on their personal lives.
“My husband has taught me to learn to die in public opinion. The same people who praise you today will hate you tomorrow. It’s a cruel world. We ignore trolls most of the time,” she said.
Related: Bahati, Diana Marua’s breakup turns out to be a promotion for their new Netflix reality show
