Kenyan social media influencer Pritty Vishy recently ignited a storm of criticism online after publicly pleading with her followers to help her purchase a refrigerator. In a heartfelt social media post, Vishy expressed her urgent need for a fridge, stating that it would mean a lot to her and that she would be forever grateful to anyone who contributed.
Vishy’s plea was accompanied by a promise of eternal gratitude: “I really need a fridge so badly I even feel like crying. The day I will buy it, I swear I will cry myself to sleep. I want it before my sister comes and before my birthday. If you contribute, I swear I will never forget you, but I am serious.” The post quickly garnered widespread attention, leading to a flood of reactions from Kenyans.
While Vishy’s request might have been intended to be a personal appeal, it was met with significant backlash. Many critics took to social media to voice their displeasure, accusing her of entitlement and exploiting her followers for personal gain. The reactions ranged from mocking comments to outright disapproval.
One user, @tashleytugi, criticized Vishy’s request as an example of the trend where people seek lavish lifestyles at the expense of others: “Delusional how ‘we’ always want lavish lifestyle on people’s expenses😂😂😂🙌.” Another user, @amthegodfx_, humorously suggested that Vishy should provide her phone number so that someone could buy the fridge for her, albeit with the condition that she should not ask for more: “Alete number nimnunulie na asiseme namtaka😂😂😂juu nitafaint.”
Other comments were less forgiving, reflecting a broader sentiment of discontent. @galinacarolina reminded Vishy of a past incident where she had asked fans for a small amount of money for sanitary products, which was also met with criticism: “Asisahau kuna siku alianika fan wake juu ya kumuomba 100 ya pads 😢😂😂.” This comment highlighted a perception that Vishy had previously engaged in similar behavior.
The discussion around Vishy’s request also drew comparisons with other figures. @kikuyu_og._ suggested that Vishy could join protests led by younger activists in hopes of achieving her goal through collective effort: “Let her join Gen-Z in the demonstrations, she might end up rewarding herself a brand new refrigerator if it goes well.” Meanwhile, @h34trs.4.maya sarcastically contrasted Vishy’s fridge request with freedom fighter Boniface Mwangi, questioning the priorities of her supporters: “Tutachangia huyu wa fridge ama Boniface Mwangi freedom fighter 😂.”
Amidst the backlash, @daisey_awour56 took a critical stance on the general trend of influencers seeking financial support from fans: “What happened to am looking for a job so that I can be financially stable and buy my own things? This upcoming celebs with zero titles has become begging machines who are lazy to work.”
In a more light-hearted response, @sammy_i4 offered a humorous solution to Vishy’s plight: “Niko na Fridge ILe kubwa Ya Samsung but haina mlango, but it’s working properly ataieka tu Curtain aingalishe ukuta.” This comment playfully suggested an alternative to buying a new fridge.
The controversy surrounding Pritty Vishy’s request highlights the growing debate on the role of influencers and the expectations placed on them by their followers. It also reflects broader societal attitudes towards financial responsibility and the ethics of online appeals for support. As the discourse continues, it remains to be seen how Vishy will address the backlash and whether she will adjust her approach in the future.
