Gospel-turned-secular artist Bahati has spoken out regarding the constant comparisons between his family and that of socialite Amber Ray and her husband, Kennedy Rapudo. The conversation has been fueled by Amber Ray’s self-proclaimed title, “Bibi Ya Tajiri” (wife of a rich man), which has sparked mixed reactions online.
In an interview with Commentator 254, Bahati addressed the so-called “competition” between his family and the Rapudos, stating that the rivalry is a creation of online fans. He emphasized the importance of respecting the couple’s efforts in raising their family and building their brand.
“We try not to engage in unnecessary fights, but I respect Amber Ray so much. I have never met Rapudo, but I believe they are doing their best at their level, and they should be respected. We should respect this couple, they are doing a good job and they are our friends,” Bahati said.
His wife, Diana Marua, also weighed in on the matter, highlighting that everyone has their own way of expressing their admiration for their partners. “I call myself Aunty Madooh, and my husband is the one with the dooh (money). Everybody has their opinion. At the end of the day, I cannot tell them to shut up, I just sit down, watch, and move on,” Diana stated.
On her part, Amber Ray dismissed critics who are bothered by her nickname for her husband. She clarified that her decision to call Rapudo “Tajiri” is personal and not meant to be a competition with anyone. “I do not understand why people get angry when I call myself ‘Bibi Ya Tajiri.’ If you feel like your husband is rich, also call him Tajiri,” she remarked.
Meanwhile, Rapudo shared details about how he and Amber Ray met, revealing that their relationship started after a long wait. He first encountered her at a club along Thika Road during the COVID-19 pandemic but was initially overlooked as she attempted to set him up with one of her friends. However, patience paid off, and two years later, they got together.
As social media continues to fuel debates around celebrity relationships, Bahati and the Rapudos appear unbothered, choosing to focus on their families and brands rather than online chatter.