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Wavinya Ndeti breaks silence after awkward hug moment with Ida Odinga
07th November, 2025 09:58 PM
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has responded to the viral video showing an awkward hug with Mama Ida Odinga, expressing ‘gratitude’ to Kenyans for their support and feedback.
On Friday, November 7, 2025, through social media, Wavinya said she was amazed by the constant engagement and constructive criticism.
Also watch: Kalonzo leads Eastern Kenya delegation to honour Raila Odinga in Bondo
The governor went on to explain that criticism plays a central role in shaping who she is at the moment.
“You Kenyans never cease to amaze me! I didn’t realise I could attract so much attention and support from Kenyans. Your constant involvement, engagement, and constructive criticism have played a huge role in shaping who I am today. From ‘Yaliyo ndwele sipite‘ to ‘Wavinya kuhug cha Vinya‘… Because of you, our work in transformative governance and community-driven development is now being recognised across the African continent. I’m deeply grateful and always open to your feedback. Stay tuned!”
The viral hug incident
The video, which has been circulating on social media, shows Wavinya approaching Mama Ida during a public gathering and hugging her.
Mama Ida was standing and addressing a group of people at the time.
Also watch: “Forgive Raila,” Ida Odinga urges Kenyans as leaders visit Opoda Farm
Wavinya’s hug appeared to catch her by surprise, and she removed her hands from Wavinya’s waist while continuing to look at the audience.
The moment quickly drew attention online and sparked discussions about the interaction.
Wavinya was part of a delegation that accompanied Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) leader Kalonzo Musyoka to Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo to pay tribute to the late Orange Democratic (ODM) leader, Raila Odinga, on Thursday, November 6, 2025.
The delegation arrived in a colourful display, bringing several cows as gifts for Raila’s family and receiving a warm welcome from the community.
The hug occurred during this event, but some netizens are saying it was not intentional and may have resulted from the large number of guests Mama Ida had been receiving since Raila’s burial.
Despite the awkward moment, there is no known dispute between Wavinya and Mama Ida. Wavinya later had another opportunity to interact with Mama Ida, showing that the initial incident did not affect their relationship.
Wavinya’s reaction and public statement emphasised her ‘appreciation’ for Kenyans’ support while addressing the widespread attention the video has received.
The moment did not seem intentional, and Mama Ida may have been caught off guard by the many guests she has been receiving since Raila’s burial
