This archive report was first published on 8 July 2020.
Robert Burale's Covid-19 Diagnosis Sparks Controversy ¶
On July 6, 2020, Pastor Robert Burale, a motivational speaker and city pastor, revealed on his Facebook page that he had tested positive for Covid-19.
However, his claims were met with skepticism by many Kenyans, who accused him of faking his illness for attention and financial gain.
Netizens dug up Burale's past and uncovered his alleged deceptive ways, leading to widespread criticism and accusations of being a con artist.
Responding to the allegations, Burale stated in a video call with Kenyans.co.ke that he was not in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), but rather in an isolation ward, and that he was fully recovering from the disease.
He also clarified that he never needed to defend himself for being unwell, and reiterated that the disease was real and that Kenyans should adhere to protocols to stay safe.
I never need to defend myself for being unwell. But I am fully recovering and I am not in the Intensive Care Unit. I am in an Isolation ward.
This disease is real and those arguing that it cannot be contracted are misplaced. Kenyans should be safe and adhere to protocols guided. I pray for everyone's safety.
His radio interview with Massawe Jappanni sparked online uproar, with many calling him out for chasing clout and making fun of the illness.
