Gospel singer Rozina Mwakideu has filed a detailed 36-page affidavit defending herself against a defamation suit by her ex-husband, Pastor Robert Burale. The artist has stood her ground, maintaining that every statement she made was truthful and backed by evidence, firmly rejecting calls to apologize.
Rozina: “Everything I Said Was the Truth”
In her court response, Rozina asked the judge to dismiss the case, terming it meritless and vindictive. She asserted that her remarks during a public interview with her brother were honest reflections of her lived experiences. “Everything I said is the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth,” she stated, adding that her claims were supported by emails and text exchanges she shared with Burale during their marriage.
Evidence and Correspondence
The gospel singer presented several documents, including emails from 2013 and 2018, to substantiate her statements. In one exchange, she warned Burale to stop discussing their marriage publicly, vowing to “tell the truth” if he persisted. Another message revealed her desire to end the marriage, citing years of emotional struggle. “I was always alone, fighting, hoping, and praying. What did I get in return? Pain, shame, heartache, and abuse,” she wrote.
Burale’s KSh 20 Million Claim
In his defamation suit, Pastor Burale accused Rozina of making false and damaging statements that hurt his image as a pastor and public figure. He is seeking KSh 20 million in damages and has asked the court to compel Rozina to delete the interview and publicly urge viewers to stop engaging with it. However, Rozina’s lawyer described the demands as “vain and impractical,” arguing that such orders cannot realistically be enforced.
Freedom of Expression and Defense
Rozina emphasized that her statements were personal reflections shared in a respectful and non-malicious tone. She argued that her comments are protected under Article 33 of Kenya’s Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression. Her defense insists that she merely spoke her truth and did not intend to harm Burale’s reputation.
Support from Other Women
In a notable revelation, Rozina disclosed that five other women have volunteered to testify on her behalf, alleging similar experiences of deceit and financial exploitation involving the pastor. She also attached screenshots and receipts of money she claims to have lent him — funds that were never repaid.
Court’s Interim Decision
On Tuesday, October 28, the court declined Burale’s request to have the interview removed from all online platforms. However, the judge directed both Rozina and her brother to refrain from making further public statements on the matter until the case proceeds to the next hearing.
The legal battle continues to draw widespread public interest, shedding light on the intersection of faith, reputation, and women’s voices in Kenya’s gospel industry.
