Veteran Kenyan reggae DJ Kriss Darlin, whose real name is Christone Odhiambo, has sparked controversy among Kenyans for making insensitive remarks during the mourning of media personality Jahmby Koikai.
Jahmby Koikai, known as Fyah Mummah, passed away on Tuesday morning after a prolonged battle with endometriosis. At the time of her death, she was hospitalized at Nairobi Hospital and had launched an appeal for blood donations to aid her treatment.
Following the announcement of Koikai’s death, Kriss Darlin, a renowned reggae DJ who had worked with the late reggae icon, took to Instagram to criticize Koikai’s fans. He seemed to accuse them of hypocrisy in their mourning.
According to Odhiambo, Kenyans were quick to share photos of Jahmby Koikai as a tribute but failed to support her when she needed them most. “It’s now time to post pics with the departed but when she asked and needed blood donations and help nobody posted pics,” Kriss posted.
His comments immediately drew backlash from many Kenyans online, who accused him of being insensitive and misrepresenting facts.
DJ Moh Spice responded, “Such an irresponsible post! People help others in different ways. Just because it’s not posted online doesn’t mean it’s not happening! Tenda wema nenda zako! SMH!”
Other celebrities, including Njugush and DJ Shiti, also criticized Kriss Darlin, accusing him of seeking attention through Koikai’s death.