Akothee has taken to social media to criticize the public’s tendency to judge celebrities without understanding their personal battles.
The 43-year-old star, a mother of five, recently addressed the backlash surrounding a photo taken three years ago with her manager Nelly Oaks, which has been misconstrued by some as inappropriate.
In a heartfelt statement shared on Friday, Akothee revealed that the image, captured during a tumultuous time in her life, symbolizes resilience and recovery rather than the negative connotations some have chosen to associate it with.
“You can romanticize this photo because of what’s behind and what’s in your mind. However, for us, this photo reminds us of victory—a journey of a woman who refused to give up in 2021, a woman who refused to die,” she wrote.
The popular artist disclosed that the photograph was taken while she was grappling with a serious medical condition that threatened her life.
Akothee recounted her harrowing experience of undergoing multiple hospital visits and battling debilitating health issues, including compressed nerves that left one side of her body nearly paralyzed.
“I was in the middle of my world falling apart. I had to undergo an operation that would leave me in a wheelchair,” she explained. “Nelly had to do everything to bring me back to life. I was also very depressed.”
In her passionate plea to Kenyans, Akothee urged individuals to approach such images with empathy and understanding rather than jumping to conclusions.
“It’s wrong to reduce everything to a sexual connotation. If I find this picture on your page with inappropriate captions, ask yourself why we don’t see it on the blog anymore,” she admonished, reinforcing her desire to manage her public image.
In an era dominated by social media and instant judgments, Akothee’s message resonates with many who have faced unwarranted scrutiny. Her call for compassion and clarity highlights the importance of recognizing the deeper stories behind public personas.
As the mother of five continues to navigate her career and personal challenges, she stands as a reminder of resilience—a woman who has triumphed over adversity and continues to inspire others with her journey.
Related: Akothee Speaks On Having Baby No.6 With Nelly Oaks As She Reflects On Motherhood