Businesswoman Wanja Nyarari has addressed recent claims made by Kikuyu blogger and musician Uria Wari Cukura ya Nairobi, who alleged she slapped him and blocked his access to musician Betty Bayo’s final resting place.
The incident reportedly occurred during the private burial of Betty Bayo at Mugumo Estate in Kiambu. Cukura, known for documenting events on social media, had been updating followers throughout the funeral process, a practice that drew criticism from many Kenyans who felt he was intruding on the grieving family.
According to Cukura, tensions escalated when he and other content creators arrived at Bayo’s land. He claimed Wanja approached him, pushed him toward the hearse, and attempted to slap him. He described feeling embarrassed, particularly in front of his wife. Cukura said Wanja then summoned her security team, but he was protected by friends and fellow security personnel who escorted him back inside.
Cukura took to social media to share his version of events, asking Wanja, “Who are you? You are slapping me as who?” His posts sparked debate online, with many criticizing his coverage of the late musician’s funeral.
Wanja Nyarari responded by appealing to content creators to respect grieving families. She wrote, “If you cannot comfort, at least do not disturb. Loss is heavy. Please don’t make it heavier. Grief needs space. You don’t get paid to bully families. You get chased.”
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between social media creators and private individuals during sensitive events. Cukura’s coverage of Betty Bayo’s passing, including updates at the hospital and burial, had already drawn public criticism for perceived insensitivity. Wanja’s statement reinforces the need for discretion and respect for families during moments of mourning.
As of now, the incident remains a talking point online, with discussions focused on privacy, social media ethics, and the responsibility of bloggers during personal tragedies.
