Media personality Ciru Muriuki has finally broken her silence regarding the hurtful "red thigh" labels directed at her following the death of her fiancé, Charles Ouda.
Speaking on the latest episode of the Mic Cheque Podcast, the career journalist addressed the origins of these claims and how she has navigated the subsequent online storm.
The Origins of the Label
The "red thigh woman" notion began spreading on social media shortly after the passing of actor Charlie Ouda. Muriuki explained that the term is rooted in Kikuyu culture. Traditionally, it refers to a woman who is perceived to be cursed because she has lost several partners to death.
According to Muriuki, the specific cultural threshold for this label is usually seven partners. She noted that the rumours gained momentum as social media users began fabricating a lengthy and tragic dating history for her.
Debunking the Falsehoods
Muriuki used the platform to set the record straight on her past relationships. She clarified that many of the men linked to her by online trolls were merely friends or people she had never even met.
She specifically addressed claims regarding the late radio presenter Saliva Vic, who passed away in 2017. Muriuki stated they were very close friends and had a "talking stage," but they never actually dated.
She also debunked claims that she had dated an Asian man or studied in the USIU.
“I have never been in USIU, I was never a student of USIU and I’ve never dated an Asian man. People were just coming up with stories,” she set the record straight.
How She Handled the Backlash
The veteran journalist expressed shock at the timing of the rumours. She found it messed up that people would invent such stories while she was in the depths of mourning.
"I was just surprised that someone can just die and then that’s the first thing you think about, to even start a rumour,” Podcaster Chaxy added.
Muriuki admitted that she has been dealing with significant grief over the last two years. However, she credited her self-assurance in her 40s for helping her handle the public scrutiny.
She described her 40s as her "best decade," noting that she has reached a point where she no longer seeks to impress society or fit into safe boxes.
Despite the challenges, Muriuki is focusing on her recovery and professional growth. She has prioritised her mental health and physical well-being, including significant lifestyle changes like quitting alcohol and incorporating movement through dance.
She also announced the upcoming second season of her podcast, Undiscovered. While she admitted that starting the show again without Charlie has been difficult, she feels ready to return to the media space.
Muriuki concluded by urging Kenyans to focus on civic education and understanding the constitution as the country moves toward the 2027 elections.
