Popular Kikuyu musician Raj Banema is currently mourning the loss of his partner, Josephine Wairimu. On July 3, Banema announced her passing through a heartfelt social media post, prompting an outpouring of condolences from fans and fellow artists alike.
The singer has since shared details of the burial arrangements. According to him, two funeral planning meetings are taking place daily: one at Kiboko Hotel in Kwambira, Limuru, from 7:30 PM, and another at Homeland Lounge along Thika Road from 6:00 PM. The burial is scheduled for Friday, July 11, in Ndaragwa, Nyahururu, at the family home in Nyonjoro village.
However, what began as a period of mourning soon turned into a heated online debate. Allegations have emerged questioning the legitimacy of Banema’s relationship with the late Josephine. A woman identified as Abigail Nyaga, who claims to be Josephine’s sister, took to social media to challenge Banema’s public portrayal of their bond. According to her, the two were never formally married, and she accused the singer of using the funeral to raise money for personal benefit.
“To clear the air, our sister is being buried at home because there was no official marriage between her and Banema,” Abigail wrote in a viral post. She went further to suggest that Josephine was the one supporting Banema financially, asserting that the musician should not be using her funeral as a platform for fundraising.
These claims have ignited mixed reactions online. While some sympathized with Banema and offered him support during his grief, others sided with the family, expressing skepticism over his intentions. The debate spilled onto platforms like TikTok and Facebook, with people sharing divergent views on what constitutes a legitimate relationship, especially in modern Kenyan society.
Some argued that cohabitation and long-term commitment are valid forms of partnership, even without a traditional or legal marriage. Others, however, insisted that cultural customs—such as the payment of dowry—must be followed for a man to be recognized as a husband, particularly within Kikuyu traditions.
One user commented, “Kwa Kikuyu tradition huwezi zika mke kama hujailipa mahari,” stressing that marriage is only acknowledged after fulfilling customary rites. Another, however, defended the singer: “Nowadays, hiyo kukaanisha pia ni marriage.” A different netizen added, “Ni sawa tumeskia but pesa yetu tunapea Banema coz ndiye alifanya tujue huyo sis yenyu.”
Despite the storm brewing around him, Banema has maintained a low profile since sharing the burial details. He has not publicly addressed the accusations or the family’s statements. Supporters continue to flood his posts with messages of encouragement and condolences, urging him to stay strong during this difficult time.
An old interview clip also resurfaced online following Josephine’s death, in which Banema emotionally spoke about his children. He revealed he had two kids, and that he had previously lost a daughter—further deepening the emotional weight of his current situation.
As preparations for the burial proceed, the debate over his relationship with Josephine continues to divide opinion. Yet, amid the controversy, one fact remains clear: a life was lost, and those left behind—regardless of their position—are navigating grief in their own way.
