Presidential hopeful and former ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo today caused a stir online after sharing photos of his outfit during a high-profile courtesy call.

Mr. Owalo had visited the Luo Council of Elders Chairman (Ker), Odungi Randa, at his home in Kisumu County. However, the political weight of the interaction was quickly overshadowed by public discourse surrounding his choice of attire: a distinct peplum-styled shirt.

While a section of Kenyan netizens quickly mistook the pleated flair of the shirt for women’s wear, fashion enthusiasts point out that peplum shirts are an established, modern casual wear option for men.

The clarification did little to stop the internet from doing what it does best. Memes and lighthearted commentary quickly flooded social media timelines, drifting far from the intended message of the leaders’ meeting.

Netizens react

A sample of the viral reactions captured by Kondele News highlighted the amusement of online spectators:

Enock Nyongesa: “Designer mara hatari!”

Jobier Mchuda McObama: “Umechukua nguo ya madam?”

Innocent Omboko: “My Presidential candidate is looking very Presidential.”

A spot check on contemporary men’s fashion designs reveals that custom pieces of this style and fabric generally retail between $100 and $250 (Ksh 13,000 to Ksh 32,500).

The political undertone of the visit remains significant, however.

Owalo is among the prominent leaders from the Lakeside region who have signaled an interest in challenging President William Ruto for the country’s top seat.

Other regional heavyweights eyeing the political landscape include Siaya Governor James Orengo and Siaya Senator Dr Oburu Oginga.