Content creator and influencer Diana Marua has come under heavy criticism online following a recent social media post about police brutality and the Gen Z-led protests in Kenya. While her message appeared heartfelt and aimed at offering comfort and solidarity, many Kenyans felt it came too late — and only when the dust had already settled.
In her Instagram post, Diana reflected on the events of the previous year’s protests, mourning the lives lost and encouraging her followers to stay hopeful. She wrote about strength, healing, and standing together as a nation. However, the public reaction was far from supportive. Social media users accused her of being performative and opportunistic, with some saying her post lacked sincerity and felt like an attempt to stay relevant without truly engaging in the struggle.
Many online critics pointed out that Diana had remained silent during the height of both last year’s and this year’s protests, only choosing to speak out when it was no longer risky. They argued that her failure to join or publicly support the movement during critical moments reflected a disconnect between her and the realities facing ordinary Kenyans.
The backlash intensified as comparisons were drawn between Diana and other public figures who showed up and took part in the protests. Several well-known personalities were present on the streets, standing in solidarity with the youth and demanding justice. Their involvement was seen as a sign of genuine support, especially as some of them faced tear gas and police intimidation. This stark contrast left many questioning Diana’s motivations and wondering why she, along with her husband, consistently avoided such civic participation.
To make matters worse, when Diana was previously asked why she didn’t participate in the 2024 protests, she posted a video from a hospital bed, claiming to be unwell. Many doubted the timing and authenticity of that explanation, calling it a convenient excuse to avoid involvement. This history has contributed to the skepticism surrounding her latest message.
Comments on her post quickly turned harsh. Some users threatened to unfollow both Diana and Bahati, expressing frustration over what they saw as a pattern of silence when it mattered most. Others accused the couple of always trying to stay neutral or uninvolved, even when innocent lives were being lost and the country was in turmoil.
What seems to have stung the public most was the feeling that Diana’s message lacked the weight of action. While words of comfort and unity are important, many believe that real support is shown through action — through presence, advocacy, and standing with the people when it counts. For critics, her post came off as too polished, too safe, and ultimately too late.
In the eyes of many Kenyans, the moment for solidarity had passed, and what was needed from public figures wasn’t belated sympathy, but visible support during the struggle itself. Diana’s post, instead of inspiring hope, became a symbol of what some see as performative activism — a gesture made only when it no longer carried any risk.
