NTV Uganda presenter Lynda Ddane recently found herself at the center of rumors after noticeable weight loss led some to speculate that she might be ill. Tired of the gossip and personal attacks, Ddane decided to confront the allegations head-on by going live on Instagram to take an HIV test in front of her followers.
In the video, Ddane is seen holding the HIV test kit, explaining to her viewers that she had been experiencing difficulty eating for several weeks, which resulted in her unintentional weight loss. She further emphasized that she had no health issues, and the test results came back negative.
“Are you happy?” Ddane asked, addressing the viewers after showing the test results. She explained that the test was conducted in real-time, ensuring full transparency. “I tested while you guys were looking at me. We waited 20 minutes, and then we got the results,” she added.
Her decision to take the test live was met with mixed reactions. Many were saddened that she had to give up her privacy due to the constant pressure from social media. One user, Sheilahgashumba, commented, “People need to learn how to use kind words towards others,” while another, tim_mjacson, said, “This is sad. Why would you lead someone to this? What happened to humanity?”
Other netizens expressed their support for Ddane, with Emukulefrancis stating, “She has nothing to prove to anybody,” and Iamannienixon urging, “You can now all leave her alone.”
The incident highlights the pressures that public figures face, with celebrities often pushed to reveal personal details to silence rumors and speculation. For Ddane, her transparency is a reflection of her professionalism, but it’s also a reminder of the toll that invasive public scrutiny can take on one’s mental health and privacy.
As the live test unfolded, many viewers appreciated Ddane’s courage and resilience in handling the situation, while others expressed their concern over the extent to which celebrities must go to clear their names in today’s social media-driven world.