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Kenyan National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa faced unexpected backlash during an intense head-to-head interview with Mehdi Hasan on Al Jazeera, but it wasn’t just his political defense that drew criticism.
His choice of footwear, expensive red-bottom shoes, became a viral talking point, sparking public outrage over the lifestyle of Kenyan politicians amid economic hardship.
During the Q&A session, an audience member pressed Ichung’wa on wasteful government spending, questioning the frequent use of helicopters for minor events and the extravagant perks enjoyed by public officials.
Then, with cutting sarcasm, she delivered the line that would steal the show:
"By the way, very nice red-bottom shoes."
The audience burst into laughter and applause, momentarily throwing Ichung’wa off balance.
The video quickly spread online, with Kenyans seizing on the symbolism of a leader flaunting luxury while millions struggle with the cost of living.
Luxury in a Time of Economic Struggles
The shoes weren’t just a fashion statement, they represented the growing disconnect between Kenya’s leadership and its people. Kenya has been grappling with soaring inflation, high taxes, and rising unemployment, triggering widespread frustration and protests.
For many, the signature red-bottomed soles, often associated with Christian Louboutin, a brand where prices range from $700 to over $2,000, are an emblem of extravagance.
Seeing a high-ranking government official sporting such luxury while ordinary citizens struggle to put food on the table struck a nerve.
Hasan, who had been grilling Ichung’wa on corruption, police brutality, and unfulfilled election promises, capitalised on the moment.
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"Kenyan MPs are among the highest paid in the world relative to the average citizen. You make 32 times the average salary. And yet, Kenyans are watching their leaders flaunt extreme wealth while they struggle with the cost of living. Do you understand why they are so furious?" Hasan asked.
Ichung’wa, while acknowledging the frustrations, defended his nearly Sh1 billion wealth, stating that it did not come from his government salary but from previous business ventures.
Memes flooded social media, some likening Ichung’wa’s fashion sense to the excesses of leaders and corrupt elites.
Others pointed out that MPs continue to receive hefty allowances and perks while the government asks citizens to tighten their belts.
This is not the first time Kenyan politicians have been called out for flaunting wealth. In recent months, videos of politicians showcasing luxury cars, expensive watches, and high-end vacations have fueled public resentment.
The latest uproar only adds to the perception that leaders are indifferent to the struggles of ordinary Kenyans.
At its core, this controversy is bigger than shoes. It’s about the widening gap between Kenya’s ruling class and its people.
In a country where many are barely scraping by, the image of a top government official walking through an economic crisis in designer footwear only reinforces the belief that leaders are out of touch with reality.