Sallam SK Mendez, Diamond Platnumz’s manager and a key figure in his business empire, has broken his silence following the Furaha City Festival fiasco.
Addressing the controversy, Sallam called for honesty and professionalism in the industry, urging artists to focus on their craft instead of creating unnecessary drama.
Sallam claimed the incident stemmed from an altercation involving Kenyan artiste Willy Paul and Tanzanian star Zuchu.
“An artist called Willy should tell the truth,” Sallam said.
“He argued with Zuchu, blocked her from getting on stage, and insisted on performing first. But when his turn came, he refused, saying he’s the headliner and must close the show.”
Sallam dismissed claims that Diamond Platnumz’s absence was due to any artist.
Further he clarified that the matter was between the organizers and Diamond’s team.
“Bless up,” he concluded, maintaining his focus on moving forward.
In response, Willy Paul took to Instagram to thank his fans for their overwhelming support at the Furaha City Show.
He acknowledged the challenges but credited his fans for making the night worthwhile.
The Kenyan star shared a detailed account of the difficulties he faced.
“My entry was delayed by over two hours. Provisions agreed upon with the organizers were inadequate, and my team faced harassment and mishandling by security,” he wrote.
He described enduring unnecessary force and threats despite being a paid performer.
Willy Paul highlighted the broader struggles Kenyan artists face, urging event organisers to treat them with the respect they deserve.
“Artists are ambassadors of our culture. Fair treatment is essential for the growth of our industry,” he emphasized.
Despite the setbacks, Willy Paul reassured fans of his dedication to delivering exceptional performances.
He called for unity in uplifting Kenyan and East African music to the global stage.
The Furaha City Festival, though riddled with challenges, has sparked an important conversation about professionalism, respect, and equity in the entertainment industry.
