In a heartfelt and resolute statement, Nominated Senator Hezena Lemaletian has officially called off her engagement and returned dowry, bringing an end to what she once publicly celebrated as a promising union.
The Samburu-born lawmaker, who made headlines in October 2024 after announcing her engagement during a traditional ceremony, took to social media again on Friday, May 16, not to share joy—but to set the record straight.
“Allegations that I was married are false and unfounded,” Lemaletian stated firmly. “And I shall also not be married to that person whatsoever.”
Just months ago, she had described her then-fiancé as “a fine top brain”, radiating happiness as she embraced her cultural roots through the traditional betrothal ceremony. But behind the scenes, a deeper cultural process was unfolding—one that would ultimately lead to the end of the engagement.
In accordance with Samburu tradition, Lemaletian’s family elders launched a thorough background check on the man who sought her hand in marriage. Known for its cultural rigor, the Samburu community places immense value on due diligence before sealing any matrimonial union.
“The due procedure of the Samburu culture is that a background check must be conducted before marriage. And so it was—and thoroughly,” she said.
The outcome of that background investigation, she revealed, was enough for her family elders to make a decisive call. The dowry, amounting to Ksh 100,000, was returned, and by January 2025, the engagement had been officially cancelled.
“The elders of my family halted the whole process after the background check and refused to accept dowry. As such, the whole process was immediately cancelled.”
In her statement, Lemaletian expressed deep gratitude to her elders for stepping in with wisdom and protection, likening their guidance to what her late father would have offered had he been alive.
“Their involvement was like that of a father. I know my late father would have been proud.”
Though the senator had kept silent throughout the ordeal—out of respect for the parties involved—she said the time had come to speak, especially following recent media attacks and public speculation surrounding her private life.
She also made it clear that any further slander would be met with legal action, as she continues to guard her name, dignity, and that of her family.
“We request privacy as we move forward. Any further attempts to slander my name shall be addressed through legal means.”
Known for her fierce advocacy in the Senate and unshakable pride in her cultural heritage, Senator Hezena Lemaletian now adds another chapter to her story—one marked by strength, tradition, and difficult but necessary choices.
While the engagement is no more, she remains grounded in the values that have defined her rise: integrity, respect for tradition, and an unwavering commitment to her future.
And for many who look up to her, she has once again reminded the nation that honoring one’s roots is not weakness—but power.
