The Trans Nzoia County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Hon. Phanice Naliaka Khatundi, has ignited widespread online discussion following her reaction to a photo showing Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna receiving a hug from Mama Ida Odinga.
The moment occurred at the Odinga family residence in Karen during celebrations marking the late Raila Odinga’s posthumous birthday, popularly referred to as 80+1.
In a social media post, Khatundi criticised Senator Sifuna for what she described as an “incomplete hug,” noting that he did not use both hands while embracing Mama Ida.
According to her, a proper hug should involve both parties fully reciprocating the gesture, as is customary when people show affection or warmth.
Her remarks quickly drew mixed reactions from netizens, with many rushing to defend the ODM Secretary-General. Supporters of Sifuna argued that his posture was a deliberate sign of respect, given Mama Ida Odinga’s status as an elder and a mother figure within the party.
One social media user, identified as Churchill Dibondo, commented that Sifuna’s action reflected cultural propriety. “That’s a respectful way of hugging a woman who is not your wife, mother, or sister,” he wrote.
Another user, Hillary Wafula, suggested that critics were missing the bigger picture. “You may not understand what Mama Ida was communicating. This gesture was symbolic and directed at those opposing Sifuna,” he remarked.
The incident has since fueled wider debate on social etiquette, cultural norms, and political symbolism, with opinions sharply divided on whether the hug represented respect, restraint, or something deeper within the ODM political landscape.
Despite the controversy, the moment has once again highlighted Senator Sifuna’s prominence within the party and the keen public interest surrounding interactions involving the Odinga family.
Tags
News