Former television queen, Jacque Maribe, has opened up about the persistent public narrative linking her to Dennis Itumbi, the Head of Creative Economy and Special Projects in the Office of the President.
Speaking on the 'Off The Grid' podcast, Maribe highlighted a peculiar digital phenomenon: Google searches for "Dennis Itumbi's wife" predominantly display her images.
The Persistent "Wife" Narrative
During the podcast, Maribe recounted how this assumption has permeated various aspects of her life.
She humorously noted the public's conviction, stating, "If I Google 'Dennis Itumbi wife,' it's only Jacque. Let me see. We'll use this opportunity on this podcast. Just do the thing".
This reflects a long-running public perception that, as Maribe and Itumbi joke, has seen them married on social media.
"And we normally joke and say, 'By the way, if we get to a certain age and we're not married, we will just have to deal with this issue.' Because we have already been married on social media. I see people saying there are in-laws on social media".
She also lightheartedly remarked on the public's perception of their relationship, saying, "My Oh, by the way, my child is his. Yeah, I forgot to mention. Yes. My child is also his".
The Infamous Kiss Explained
Dennis Itumbi had previously addressed the origins of a widely circulated photo showing him kissing Maribe.
He clarified that the kiss was not a romantic gesture but the result of a party game called "truth or bottles" during a birthday celebration.
Itumbi explained that he chose the kiss over a 50,000 shillings penalty for refusing the dare.
Regret Over an "Overplayed" Narrative
Despite the casual nature of the kiss, Itumbi expressed regret over how their perceived relationship was amplified publicly.
ALSO READ: Dennis Itumbi Reflects on Jacque Maribe Relationship & the Viral Kiss Photo
"I sincerely wish that what you guys speak about with Maribe was true. I sincerely wish I had made it true because I think then it would have stopped," he remarked.
He further explained that the "Jacque Maribe bit" has been so "overplayed" that he still has to explain it when approaching new people, and Maribe similarly faces constant questioning.
A Friendship That Endured
Both Itumbi and Maribe consistently stress that their connection is, and always has been, a strong friendship. Maribe was dating someone else when the public speculation began.
Their bond was significantly tested and proven through challenging times. Itumbi shared, "She stood with me when I was in court. I stood with her when she was facing her own court process," highlighting the depth of their mutual support.
Itumbi also noted that Maribe's "magnetic charm" and her natural ability to attract cameras meant that any interaction they had together would inevitably become a major public event, further fuelling the ongoing narrative.
Despite the public's persistent assumptions, Maribe and Itumbi maintain their commitment to their friendship, which they describe as having "high discipline".
Comments 0
Sign in to join the conversation
Sign In Create AccountNo comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!