Bahati responds after critics label DNA test with viral woman a clout-chasing stunt
By Steve Ireri, February 19, 2026Singer Kevin Kioko, popularly known as Bahati, has broken his silence following claims that the DNA test he recently took with a woman claiming to be his biological mother was staged for clout chasing.
Speaking about the criticism in a video shared on his Instagram page on Thursday, February 19, 2026, Bahati confirmed that the DNA results would be ready in 14 days and urged the public to wait for the official outcome before reaching any conclusions.
“I have already done the DNA test, and the doctor told us to wait 14 days for the results,” he said.
He dismissed claims that the exercise was a publicity stunt, maintaining that the situation is genuine and deeply personal.
He explained that when he chose to remain silent at the time, some members of the public accused him of disregarding a woman who could potentially be his biological mother.
“I do not want the jokes from people saying that this whole thing is clout chasing or that it was planned for show. In fact, some of you are the reason I ignored the woman’s claims back in December. When I kept quiet, people said I was looking down on a woman who could possibly be my mother,” he shared.
Bahati emphasised that the matter is sensitive and should not be trivialised for entertainment or social media jokes.
He noted that the emotional weight of the situation has significantly affected him.
“Let us now wait for the results because this is a very sensitive matter,” he said.
Impact on music career
The singer also revealed that the controversy disrupted his music plans.
He disclosed that he had planned to release a song in December 2025 but postponed it because of the unfolding situation and the pressure surrounding the claims.
He admitted that at some point, he felt hesitant about returning to his music career due to the intensity of public scrutiny.
“Because of everything that has been happening, I was even afraid of going back to my music career. I was supposed to release a song in December 2025, but I delayed it,” he said.
He described the constant attention as both overwhelming and a blessing, noting that he trends even during periods when he is not actively promoting any project.
“I am always trending, and Kenya is always talking about Bahati. It is a blessing because I trend even when I am not actively doing anything,” he added.