‘PRESENCE IS NOT SUBMISSION’ BIEN RESPONDS TO BACKLASH OVER MACRON MEETING

Kenyan singer Bien Baraza has responded to criticism following his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and his performance at the Africa Forward Le Concert in Nairobi.

The artist faced backlash from some Kenyans and activists who questioned why African artists would associate with foreign leaders and political power structures. In a direct response to the criticism, Bien defended his actions while reaffirming his African identity. “I can sit at a table with global leaders and still remain fully African, fully critical, and fully myself,” Bien said. “Presence is not submission.”

His statement pushed back against the notion that engaging with international political figures automatically equates to compromise or betrayal of African interests.

Chiki Kuruka, who serves as Bien’s manager and wife, also came to the defence of African artists facing online backlash over their participation in the Africa Forward Summit. She argued that artists should not be penalised for stepping onto global stages after being encouraged to share African stories with the world. “You cannot ask African artists to take Africa to the world, then criticise them for entering the rooms where the world is shaped,” she stated.

Kuruka further clarified the role of politicians and creatives, saying that artists cannot be held responsible for policy failures while simultaneously being expected to represent the continent internationally. “It is the responsibility of politicians to fight for fair policy, it is the responsibility of artists to carry our stories across borders,” she said. “Sitting at global tables does not make us less African; it is part of making sure Africa is seen, heard, and impossible to ignore.“

The couple’s responses come amid a growing conversation about the role of African creatives in international diplomacy and political spaces.