Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi has recently stirred up controversy after flaunting his new luxury watch, valued at Ksh 16.6 million ($128,000).
During an appearance on the Obinna Show, Sudi, known for his affinity for high-end items, openly discussed his purchase and defended his lavish lifestyle. His comments have sparked a wave of criticism from both the public and prominent officials.
On Thursday night’s show, Sudi proudly displayed his new watch and elaborated on his taste for expensive items. He argued that luxury goods are made for people, not animals.
“This watch was not manufactured for trees or cows but it was made for human beings,” Sudi stated, defending his choice to invest in high-priced items.
He further questioned why people criticize his spending, asking, “If you tell me not to wear the suit and tie, who do you want to wear it when the products are in the shop?”
Sudi’s remarks were meant to assert that his purchase was justified and that people should not judge his spending habits.
Foreign Affairs PS Korir Sing'oei speaking during a colloquium on the review of Kenya's Foreign Policy on July 30, 2024. Photo Musalia MudavadiHowever, his comments did not sit well with many Kenyans and high-ranking officials. The reaction was swift and critical, with many questioning the appropriateness of Sudi's display of wealth amidst ongoing economic challenges in the country.
Foreign Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei was among the notable figures who expressed disapproval.
Sing'oei labeled Sudi’s interview as “unfortunate” and questioned the purpose of showcasing such a lavish lifestyle.
He implied that Sudi’s focus on luxury items was not in line with the pressing issues facing the country. The backlash against Sudi’s comments intensified with public figures and commentators joining the fray.
Nation Columnist Professor Makau Mutua criticized Sudi for what he described as a “tone-deaf” interview. Mutua felt that Sudi’s emphasis on his luxury watch, including physically carrying it during the interview, came across as insensitive given the economic struggles faced by many citizens.
He suggested that it would have been more beneficial if Sudi had used the platform to discuss his business acumen rather than focusing on his personal wealth.
Sudi’s extravagant display has also reignited criticism related to his lifestyle and public statements.
Since the collapse of the Finance Bill 2024, Sudi has been under scrutiny for his opulent lifestyle and controversial remarks.
The Finance Bill protests in June had already placed him in the spotlight, with protestors breaking into his Timba XO Club in Uasin Gishu, stealing valuable items, and causing significant damage.
In previous statements, Sudi had defended his wealth and business ventures by claiming that he travels extensively for profitable deals, rather than attending Parliament sessions.
He argued that his focus on business trips was a means to amass wealth, contrasting it with the perception that he was merely collecting a paycheck from his parliamentary role.
His comments about attending Parliament less frequently and prioritizing business over legislative duties had already made him a target for criticism.
Sudi’s defense of his lifestyle as a product of hard work and business acumen did not ease the mounting public criticism.
Many viewed his defense as an attempt to justify excessive spending rather than addressing the broader concerns of economic inequality and public perception.
The focus on luxury items seemed to many as a distraction from the more pressing issues that the country faces, such as economic hardship and governance challenges.
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