In recent times, a troubling trend has emerged among Kenyan politicians who openly showcase their great wealth on social media platforms. This flamboyant display of wealth starkly contrasts with the daily struggles of ordinary Kenyans, who are grappling with soaring living costs made worse by questionable government financial policies.
Several Kenyan politicians have come under public scrutiny for their extravagant lifestyles over the past few months and years. They include: former Nairobi governor Mike Sonko who has been particularly conspicuous, once sharing videos where he counted out Sh 52 million in dollars, showcases hundreds of pairs of expensive shoes, dons luxury foreign-brand clothing and wears gold and diamond jewelry valued at approximately KSh 7.2 million. Another politician is Kipchumba Murkomen, the Transport Cabinet Secretary who has been spotted wearing high-end fashion items, including Philipp Plein sneakers worth Sh 96,000 and a Hublot Classic Fusion Ceramic King Gold watch valued at Sh 1.6 million. He also attended a Manchester United vs. Barcelona match at Old Trafford, with tickets costing no less than Sh 100,000.
Latest Cabinet Secretary hire, former Mombasa governor Hassan Joho, is more often than not at the top of the list of wealthy politicians who see no issue with flaunting unbelievable wealth on Instagram. Known as “Sultan,” the former Mombasa governor frequently shares images of his lavish lifestyle, which includes driving the latest luxury vehicles like Mercedes G Wagons and owning multiple high-end watches, each costing over a million shillings. Additionally, Parliamentarians like Peter Salasya, the Mumias East Member of Parliament, while publicly opposing proposed tax hikes, has often been seen indulging in a lavish lifestyle. Notably, he recently purchased a Land Cruiser V8, mirroring a vehicle previously loaned to him by a fellow politician.
Even within the political class, there are acknowledgments of this opulence show-off insensitivity. In a recent interview with Al Jazeera’s Mehdi Hasan, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah addressed the issue of politicians flaunting their wealth:
“It’s rather unfortunate. Nobody should do that,” Ichung’wah stated. He further mentioned that when he observes such behavior among his peers, he advises them, “Hey bro, this is not good.”
However, during the same interview, Ichung’wah faced scrutiny over his own display of affluence. An audience member pointed out his expensive red-bottom shoes, highlighting the irony of his stance. The shoes, identified as Christian Louboutin’s Chambelimoc Night Strass, are priced at approximately Sh 242,000.
These displays of wealth come at a time when many Kenyans are enduring severe economic hardships. The government’s recent financial decisions, including proposed tax hikes on essential items, have further burdened citizens already struggling with inflation and a high cost of living. In 2024, widespread protests erupted against a draft finance bill that sought to increase taxes on necessities, leading to violent confrontations and loss of lives. The youth-led demonstrations highlighted the public’s frustration with systemic issues, including corruption and the extravagant lifestyles of politicians.
The conspicuous consumption exhibited by some politicians, including President William Ruto who was spotted with extravagant fashion items including belts, a Sh 8.7 million watch (one of many within the same price range) and shoes costing millions while he was out on ‘campaign’ rallies across the country, underscores a concerning disconnect between elected officials and the populace they serve. Such behavior not only appears insensitive but also worsens public discontent. Leaders must recognize that citizens are more than mere voting numbers; they are individuals seeking daily sustenance, affordable living conditions and governance that prioritizes their well-being.
As we Kenya continue to navigate these challenging economic times, it is imperative for politicians to demonstrate empathy and financial responsibility. By aligning their actions with the realities faced by ordinary citizens, leaders can rebuild trust and work towards policies that genuinely improve the quality of life for all Kenyans.
