Kenyan songbird Dyana Cods has found herself at the centre of a social media storm after publicly declaring her admiration for President William Ruto, only to later backtrack and claim it was “just joking.”
The Set It hitmaker took to her Instagram stories with a string of controversial posts praising the head of state.
“I don’t understand the hate. God protect him. I love my president and I stand by that,” she wrote, triggering an avalanche of online backlash.
In a separate post, Dyana doubled down, writing: “Just know a country with bad governance is better than one with no governance. You can’t change the current leader, but you can change the coming generation of leaders.”
As reactions from netizens flooded in, many accusing her of being tone-deaf to the country’s socio-political climate during a politically charged week marked by nationwide protests against state brutality and public frustration, Dyana quickly changed tune.
“Sorry to the people I offended. Ilikuwa inside joke, kwani hamjui jokes,” she wrote, attempting to douse the flames.
She later clarified that the original posts were sarcastic and not a genuine endorsement of the president. “Ata nyinyi mnajua gava zi. I stand with the people,” she added, distancing herself from her earlier comments.
In yet another twist, Dyana revealed she had been dared to post the message for 24 hours, but due to the online outrage, she decided to pull it down early. “Nimewachana na hiyo mchezo. #Wantam,” she signed off.
The timing of the controversy is no coincidence.
Dyana also announced she’s working on a new track titled Zakayo Unashuka, a not-so-subtle nod to President Ruto’s nickname among critics.
Fans are now speculating whether the stunt was a publicity move to tease the politically charged single.
This is not the first time a Kenyan entertainer has had to walk back political comments.
Earlier this year, comedian Eunice Mammito faced heavy criticism for promoting her Netflix debut at the height of national protests, sparking conversations about the fine line between entertainment and activism.