Why I will not refund Sh19.3m to Furaha Fest organisers - Diamond Platnumz

Diamond Platnumz has broken his silence following his unexpected no-show at the Furaha City Festival in Nairobi.

The artiste reportedly received a staggering $150,000 (approximately Sh19.3 million) to headline the event but left the venue without performing, and has made it clear he will not refund the payment.

In a video directed at his fans, Diamond explains that he adheres strictly to his performance policies, including respecting the scheduled time.

"I cannot be paid $150,000 and then come fight to perform on stage," he said.

"I will be at the venue on time and wait for the event organiser to call me to the stage. I will keep an eye on my watch, and if my performance time is over, I will leave the venue, and I will not refund any money."

Diamond emphasised that he does not get involved in disputes with other artists or organisers to secure his slot on stage.

"I don't have to negotiate with organisers or fight with other artistes to be allowed to perform. That's not my discipline," he said in the video.

The singer also addressed allegations made by Kenyan artiste Willy Paul, who claims that Diamond’s management barred him from performing to allow the Tanzanian star to take the stage first.

"It would be foolish of me to do that; how does it even make sense?" Diamond questioned

"I am the headlining act, which means all other artists perform before me. Willy Paul is just trying to create drama because he’s still chasing fame. This is nonsense—music requires hard work and good management, not clout and sympathy."

Diamond further described the chaos that unfolded at the event

He said that he arrived early and waited in his car, as he prefers not to linger backstage.

"From the moment I arrived, there was chaos that didn't seem to end. My manager called the organiser to ask why there is so much disorder and why things aren’t properly managed. The organizers responded, saying that he needed 10 more minutes. Unfortunately, the chaos soon moved to where I am sitting," Diamond explains.

As the situation spiralled, Diamond's manager decided it was best to take him back to his hotel.

"There is chaos on all sides of the event, and I can't understand why it is happening," he says.

"An artiste can’t perform under such conditions, and others might see it as disrespectful."

Diamond says that he waited for nearly three hours without taking the stage, expressing his disappointment but reaffirming that he had no choice.

Furaha City Festival organisers, meanwhile, have issued a statement defending their actions.

"We deeply regret to announce that Diamond Platnumz did not perform at the Furaha City Festival as scheduled. As organisers, we made every effort to accommodate him and his team, ensuring that all plans and contingencies were in place for a seamless experience. Despite our best efforts, his team's behaviour and demands proved regrettable and unnecessarily overbearing," the statement read.

While acknowledging a minor security issue involving another artiste, they clarified, "We swiftly resolved it and ensured that the event continues in a safe and professional manner. We believe in treating all artists equally and maintaining high-quality standards for everyone involved."

The organisers expressed pride in the performances of other artistes, adding, "Kenyan artistes outdid themselves, and we are proud. Their impeccable talent, energy, and professionalism are evident throughout the festival, and they give their all to ensure the audience has an unforgettable experience. We thank Rayvanny and Wasafi's Zuchu for their performance as well."

Diamond maintained his stance despite the public's frustration. "If someone tries to create trouble, I won’t engage. Music is about hard work, not online drama," he concluded, underscoring his commitment to upholding his standards and professionalism, even if it means walking away with $150,000 and no performance.

Additional information by Beatrice Materu