DENNIS KARURI AND MICHELLE NTALAMI EXPLAIN WHY THEY DIDN’T ATTEND EDWIN CHILOBA’S BURIAL

Make-up artist Dennis Karuri and entrepreneur Michelle Ntalami have explained the reason why they didn’t attend the burial of slain activist Edwin Chiloba.

Speaking in an interview with Eve Mungai, Karuri defended himself, saying he has never met Chiloba, “This is what I say, give me flowers when I’m alive, don’t bring me flowers when I’m dead. I have never seen Edwin in person hence I can’t get involved with his burial. I think it’s personal and family-centred and I wouldn’t want to go there and grab any form of attention since I’m a celebrity because anything can happen in the process. May he rest in peace,” said Karuri.

Ntalami responded by saying she showed up and paid respects to him, “I’d like to set the record straight once and for all, on a false narrative that I ‘deny’ my partners. Let me begin with accountability on my part. I’ve learnt from past mistakes with regards to this. I was once in a relationship where due to it’s nature and a lot of mistrust within it, I didn’t feel confident to publicly confirm it. 

I also felt pressured to have to say what we were to the media. We mutually agreed that if they ask, we’ll ‘deny.’ Something we both did in interviews, not just myself. Looking back, this is something I’d have done different.

Other issues aside at the time, I take accountability for my part in this. Since then, I resolved to do things differently. Moving forward, “private but not a secret” is my policy. If I’m comfortable to speak on my dating life, I’ll answer with the truth; yes, no, or the much I can share. (e.g good friends for now, etc) If not comfortable, I’ll reserve my right to answer. Anything in between or beyond that is no one’s business.

That’s exactly how I answered this interview (swipe); with the truth. To see some blogs misquote me and use the word ’deny’ for clicks & controversy is wrong. Where is the denial? Why ask questions if you already know the answers? Let’s report stories truthfully.

Secondly, I have several male & masc-women friends. I request people to stop assuming we’re dating or there’s more to it, each time I’m seen with them or if we share moments online. Then when I clarify with the truth, it’s termed as a ‘denial.’ Stop. Until I confirm my relationships, drop the speculations.

Finally, I may love privately, but I love loudly. It’s who I am. However, I don’t owe anyone any explanations on my personal life. What I do owe myself though, is a life of truth. As anyone can attest, I Iive my life authentically & unapologetically. That said, I also value my peace and privacy. When the time comes and I’m 100% sure of my person, rest assured it will be no secret. Let people be. Let the past rest without bringing it up each time I’m seen to be happy and going about my life. 

And let’s give each other the space and grace to become the best version of ourselves, once we know better and do better.” Chiloba was laid to rest on Tuesday, January 17 at his father’s Sergoit home in Elgeyo-Marakwet County.