Sheikh confirms officiating secret marriage between Diamond and Zuchu

“It is true that I officiated their marriage five months ago. As for whether they have since separated, I have no information. If they had parted ways, Diamond would have informed me,” he said.

Sheikh Walid expressed concern over public perceptions that often associate celebrities with immoral behaviour, urging Tanzanians to celebrate the couple’s decision to formalise their relationship.

“What people saw on social media is true. This was a real marriage, not a publicity stunt. I believe many people are surprised because they are used to hearing accusations of fornication involving Diamond and Zuchu. But this is a positive development—let us embrace it and pray for their union,” he added.

Efforts to obtain additional details from Sheikh Walid proved futile, as he insisted he had no further comment beyond confirming the marriage had taken place.

Meanwhile, Zuchu’s mother, veteran taarab singer Khadija Kopa, also confirmed the marriage, stating that she and Zuchu’s father had granted their blessings in advance, even though they were not present during the ceremony.

“As I said yesterday, marriage is a blessing. Zuhura is now married to Diamond. They chose to do it quietly, but it is still something to be grateful for,” said Ms Kopa.

She explained that the family had agreed that Zuchu could proceed with the marriage independently, and that Sheikh Walid had been authorised to act as her wali (guardian) in accordance with Islamic tradition.

“I’ve seen people questioning why Sheikh Walid held Diamond’s hand and not Zuhura’s father. As Muslims, our sheikh can serve as a wali at any time, and we had already given him that responsibility. Also, I gave birth to Zuhura out of wedlock, so traditionally, her brother would have been the one to give her away,” she added.

The couple, long rumoured to be romantically involved, has not publicly confirmed their union, and it remains unclear whether they plan to do so.