Samuel Muraya, alias DJ Mo, has spoken out for the first time about his separation from his wife, Linet Munyali, alias Size 8.
In an exclusive interview with Nation Lifestyle, the father of two shared candid insights into his personal and professional life, addressing rumours of separation from his wife.
The couple, who have been married for over a decade, have often been in the public eye, facing both admiration and scrutiny.
Reflecting on the year, DJ Mo described 2024 as a mix of "ups and downs."
In August, singer cum preacher, Size 8 announced the end of her 11-year marriage to husband DJ Mo, sparking whispers online.
1. How has your 2024 year been?
My year has been good, but it has had its ups and downs. But at the same time, it has been awesome.
All I can remember is that I just wanted to be successful. According to many people who follow the Murayas, the highlight of the year will be discussing our separation story.
I had a great year in terms of work.
Apart from entertainment, I had dates on the side this year. Muraya's show, Love in the Wild was also a very successful show.
I keep saying 'We' because I do the projects together with the mother of my children despite the separation.
We have a lot of projects planned.
2. Can you share how things are currently between you and Size 8? There have been reports about a divorce —how have you been navigating this situation?
About divorce, you should check our social media to know where we are. My wife can tell you if she filed. I cannot speak on something she said herself.
But, I am very happy, and I am focusing on parenting. My children are thriving and staying away from scandals.
So you’re still separated?
I cannot confirm that we have separated, but we also don’t judge each other on many things. We are prioritising taking care of our children together.
My marriage didn’t end. We are still good friends. When people see us together, they might think we are back together. But really, we are just co-parenting.
We have always worked well together, not just because we were married, but because we have always been good friends.
A relationship doesn’t necessarily work just because two people are married.
It works because there’s chemistry and mutual respect.
That’s how it is with us, we are friends first, and that friendship has always been the foundation of everything, including our marriage.
3. This is not the first time your marriage has faced challenges. What do you think is usually the main issue?
The reason our marriage may look like that is because we have let people be in our lives.
We don’t want to lie to our fans or paint a picture of perfection.
We are where we are because we have always been authentic.
Our fans are navigating their own relationships and marriages, so why should we come online and pretend everything is always perfect? That would be selfish and hypocritical.
Instead, we try to be honest and relatable. We understand that, in many ways, we are the eyes through which our fans see relationships. There are times when we are happy, and other times when we are upset. That is the reality. We are not trying to be anyone’s role model or set unattainable standards.
Marriage is not always perfect. Husbands and wives face challenges, and we are no different.
It’s not an easy journey, but it is ours.
As for whether I was prepared for her to post about our separation. No, I wasn’t. But that’s her choice, and I respect it.
What I can tell you is that we are good friends and have been for many years. If she decides to express herself that way, I am okay with it. After 11 years, you learn to accept each other’s decisions.
4. What goals or plans do you have for 2025, beyond your personal life?
Among the key projects is the relaunch of my DJ school, System Unit Academy, which had been paused due to restructuring.
We are resuming in February 2025 with a revamped programme.
The Murayas are also embarking on our major home-building project which is halfway complete.
We have built the house for about three years now and have spent about Sh28 million so far.
It is a big project, but we are focused on creating a great home for our family. I did not grow up in a good house but I want my family to have better.
5. Do you have a message for Kenyans, especially couples facing challenges in 2024?
To any couple going through ups and downs, remember, that you are not alone—it happens to many.
Take your time to reflect and focus on what truly matters. If you have children, prioritise their well-being above everything else.
Even during times of separation, respect for one another is key.
Marriage is not always easy. Sometimes, taking a break to reflect can help.
If you are struggling, seek guidance from a mentor or someone you trust. And to my fans, when you see a couple facing challenges, don’t judge—offer encouragement and grace instead.
Even if you are not married yet, one day it may happen. When it does, remember that no relationship is perfect, but kindness and understanding go a long way.
Extending grace costs nothing and makes a difference.
Also as an individual remember that dwelling on negativity does not help anyone. Focus on solutions, support, and growth.