Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi has stirred social media after a video of him flaunting his Sh70,000 men’s tan hand-knit design penny loafer shoes went viral.
But instead of flexing, Sudi used the moment to remind Kenyans of his humble beginnings.
In the clip, the MP calmly told critics not to question why he wears expensive shoes, but instead to ask about his journey.
“Mtu asiniulize ati mbona ninavaa viatu bei ghali. Niulize nilianzia wapi ama nilitoka wapi kwanza?” he said.
@herman_maina #herman_maina #herman?? #fyp #kenyantiktok?? #kikuyutiktok ♬ original sound – Herman??
Sudi, who once worked as a matatu tout and sold charcoal to survive, said his life hasn’t been easy. He explained that the expensive men’s tan hand-knit design penny loafer shoes symbolise how far he’s come.
When the interviewer asked how much the shoes cost, he replied, “Hii kiatu ni elfu sabini hivi.”
He then offered the host a chance to try them on. The interviewer did, but quickly noted they were too big.
Sudi took the host’s simpler shoes and wore them for fun, calling them basic but good for the hustle.
“Hii yako ni ndogo lakini ni jua kali. Usijali utafika hapo,” Sudi said, encouraging him that he’d also rise one day.
The MP said he’s faced countless challenges and worked hard to reach his current position. He added that he doesn’t get easily shaken by questions about his wealth.
He even asked to be invited back so he could tell his full story.
“Siku moja niite ndio watu waelewe. Nikupigie story yangu from A-Z,” he said.
Online, reactions were mixed. Some praised him for being real and working his way up.
“Let Sudi wear what he wants. Ametoka mbali,” one TikTok user wrote.
Others joked about their own budgets.
“Alafu kuna mimi nilienda boutique nikapata kiatu ya 2k nikakataa ati expensive.”
“Hiyo 70! naweza lipia mtoi school fees two terms aki,” another said.
Sudi’s moment comes months after MP Kimani Ichung’wah was spotted wearing red-bottom shoes during an interview.