Influencer Eli Mwenda Forgives Attacker Who Injured His Face During Event

Eli Mwenda, a social media influencer and co-host of ManTalk Ke podcast, revealed on Tuesday, July 4 that he forgave an unknown individual who assaulted him while attending an event.

In a statement on Instagram, Mwenda revealed that he was attacked on Sunday night, July 2 while coming from an event, but did not retaliate to the assault, which led to what he described as "my face being sliced open."

The facial injuries prompted him to undergo surgery to avert the development of permanent scars, a matter which disrupted his schedule to the point of being unable to shoot content.

Furthermore, he decided not to reveal the identity of the attacker while at the same time forgiving him personally.

Eli Mwenda posing for a photo. /CAPITAL GROUP

"I have had to have surgery to avoid any permanent scarring. It has impacted my work schedule meaning I'll be unable to shoot content until my face fully heals.

"I have decided not to name him publicly, as I don't believe he should be defined by one poor decision. Although I forgive him wholeheartedly on a personal level," he wrote.

However, he revealed that he followed all official channels to prevent a similar incident from occurring to anyone else.

"I shall be taking a short social media break as I focus on my health and mental well-being. I look forward to getting back to what I love doing, creating content for you," he informed his fans.

While hundreds of messages from his fans wishing him a speedy recovery were sent out, a section of Kenyans on social media speculated about the identity of the assailant and their motives.

Mwenda's Mantalk ke recognizes the need for male-led conversations around issues such as toxic masculinity, fatherhood, feminism, dating, and self-care. 

He is also known for his impeccable fashion sense and love for socialization which inspired him to create his event.

The Instamarket is a popular, sibling-owned event in Nairobi which attracts fashion enthusiasts looking to shop from various Instagram vendors. It is also an opportunity to discover the many fashion brands in the country.

Apart from shopping, the event is filled with workshops, game stations and of course, a fun turn-up because Kenyans love to party.

Back in June, Mwenda was forced to delete a social media post educating people on the safety protocols to observe while using a cab company in Kenya, after the company drew backlash after media personality  Ciku Muiruri's daughter Erica and her friend were kidnapped while riding one of its taxis.

A fleet of taxi vehicles. /FILE