Hiram Maina, a former Akorino member and popular actor known for his role in Tahidi High, has revealed why he left the Akorino faith and stopped wearing the iconic turban. Maina, who was born and raised in Nyeri within the Akorino denomination, shared that his departure was fueled by years of criticism and rejection from the community.
In an interview, Maina recounted how his decision to act without wearing the Akorino turban became a source of contention. “The church accused me of bringing embarrassment to the denomination,” he explained. “I faced so much opposition that it became unbearable. I could not take it anymore.”
The breaking point came a decade ago when Maina decided to leave the church entirely. The pressure from fellow members and leaders, coupled with the traumatic experiences, pushed him to seek peace outside the denomination.
Now a producer, Maina reflects on his journey with a mix of sadness and hope. “I grew up in that culture, but I realized I needed to prioritize my mental health and personal happiness,” he said. Despite leaving the church, Maina emphasizes that he respects the Akorino faith and its practices but could no longer endure the negativity directed at him.
Maina’s story has sparked mixed reactions online, with some applauding his courage to follow his path while others expressed disappointment in his decision. However, his resilience and openness have inspired conversations about individuality, faith, and the challenges of upholding traditions in modern society.
As he continues his journey, Maina hopes his story will encourage others facing similar struggles to stand firm in their choices and seek environments where they are valued and supported.
By Kenyans