Several popular gays and lesbians skipped Edwin Chiloba’s funeral in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
The slain LGBTQ activist and model was laid to rest in his rural home on Tuesday, January 17, 2023.
Having lived as an openly gay, many expected that a majority of his friends from the homosexual community would attend Chiloba’s funeral.
Notably missing from the funeral were Michelle Ntalami, Njeri Makena, celebrity makeup artist Dennis Karuri among others in the LGBTQ community.
Many Kenyans questioned where the outspoken gays, lesbians were when local media outlets covered Chiloba’s sendoff.
In an interview with Eve Mungai following the burial, gay makeup artist Dennis Karuri was hard-pressed to explain why he missed Chiloba’s funeral.
He admitted that he was shaken by Chiloba’s murder and that he thought of leaving Kenya immediately because the incident was brutal.
When asked why he missed Chiloba’s funeral, he simply stated that he didn’t know the late fashion designer personally and that he had chosen to allow the family to grieve in private.
“This is what I say, give me flowers when I’m alive, don’t bring me flowers when I’m dead. I have never seen Edwin in person hence I can’t get involved with his burial.
“I think it’s personal and family-centred and I wouldn’t want to go there and grab any form of attention since I’m a celebrity because anything can happen in the process. May he rest in peace,” Karuri said.
Michelle Ntalami was also put to task to explain why she skipped Chiloba’s funeral.
“Where are those LGBTQ activists who claimed to be her friends? Makena Njeri, Michelle Ntalami, Dennis Karuri, Chiki Kuruka? It was all a gimmick to gain international sympathy?” Steven Starboy questioned.
“First of all, address him proper; HIS friends. Secondly, you don’t know any facts for you to be running your mouth like this. Some of us showed up and paid our respects in ways you may not be privy to,” Miss Ntalami responded.
