Irungu Kang'ata, Gachagua And Other Kenyan Leaders Criticised For Underdressing At Key Functions

• Irungu Kang'ata faced criticism for underdressing at his deputy's wedding, sparking a debate on appropriate attire for leaders
• Wavinya Ndeti and Rigathi Gachagua also faced public backlash for their unconventional outfit choices at key events
• Charlene Ruto and Karen Nyamu drew attention for their controversial fashion choices, with Nyamu even being ejected from a Senate session

Dressing appropriately for significant events is often a matter of personal interpretation, but it has led to some heated debates in Kenya.

Recently, Murang’a governor Irungu Kang’ata became the latest public figure to face criticism for his attire at an important occasion.

Here’s a look at five Kenyan leaders who have been under fire for their sartorial choices:

1. Irungu Kang'ata

Murang'a governor Irungu Kang'ata stirred controversy with his outfit at his deputy Stephen Munania's wedding over the weekend.

Kang'ata attended the event wearing a bright blue blazer, a plaid shirt, dark trousers, and open-toe sandals.

Many netizens found this look unsuitable for the occasion, leading to a flurry of online criticism.

2. Wavinya Ndeti

Machakos governor Wavinya Ndeti sparked mixed reactions in November 2022 when she stepped out in a brown suit during her birthday celebration.

The governor chose to spend her special day with her constituents, but her outfit choice didn’t please everyone. Some felt it was not quite appropriate for the event.

3. Rigathi Gachagua

In May 2022, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's outfit drew attention for all the wrong reasons.

Observant Kenyans were quick to point out that his fashion choices, which they deemed lacking, needed an urgent update.

This public scrutiny eventually led to Gachagua updating his wardrobe.

4. Charlene Ruto

In May 2024, First Daughter Charlene Ruto attended the premiere of King Kaka's "Monkey Business" dressed in black with a colourful cover-up.

Despite her support for the event and the rapper, some netizens criticised her fashion choice, questioning whether she had received the dress code memo for the premiere.

5. Karen Nyamu

In February 2023, Speaker Amason Kingi ordered Senator Karen Nyamu out of the Senate chambers due to her attire.

Nyamu wore a green and black kitenge skirt paired with a black sleeveless blouse, which left her arms exposed.

According to the Senate's dress code, this was deemed inappropriate, prompting the Speaker to invoke Rule 5 on proper dressing before asking her to leave.

These instances highlight the ongoing debate around what constitutes appropriate attire for public figures, especially during key occasions.

Wavinya Ndeti apologises for fashion mishap

As we previously told you, Wavinya reacted to her fashion mishap.

The county boss apologised for the fashion downgrade.

She gave in and posted various photos of herself looking sharp and sophisticated at previous events, saying she understood Kenyans like to see her looking smart.

Proofreading by Otukho Jackson, a multimedia journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke