Away from the limelight: VIPs' love for privacy at their kids' weddings
FEATURES
By
Benjamin Imende
| Sep 01, 2023
Unlike ordinary folks who hold elaborate weddings in church or other accessible public places, the children of Kenya's elite are increasingly favouring private ceremonies attended by close-knit family members and cherished friends.
In the political world, others who get the chance to grave those intimate occasions are their parents' allies.
The latest to hold traditional weddings or engagements in the last three months are National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula's son Alvin, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi's daughter Maryanne, National Assembly Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss' son Kim Kogos and Kanu national chairman Gideon Moi's son Kigen.
On Saturday, August 19, Alvin exchanged vows with his fiancee Naisula Leteipan.
The groom's team dressed in vibrant emerald-green African-style shirts paired with matching trousers, adding a dash of colour to the celebration. As for the bride, she graced the occasion in a stunning gown that beautifully complemented her Maasai heritage, with accessories that added a touch of tradition and elegance.
Among the guests present were Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, Trade CS Moses Kuria, Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, former speaker Francis Ole Kaparo, Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss, and Health CS Susan Wafula. Others included Sirisia MP John Waluke, Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, and Kiminini MP Kakai Bisau.
Wetang'ula later expressed his pride as he advised his son on what marriage entails.
"Love isn't just about the good times; it's about standing strong together during challenges and finding strength in being there for each other."
A few days earlier on August 20, Marryanne formalised her engagement to lawyer Nyaga Karanja by holding a traditional ceremony.
Dressed in resplendent African attire, Maryanne effortlessly blended modern elegance with cultural grace, creating an atmosphere of sheer sophistication.
The ceremony, known as "Okhumanya wanga Omukhana" in the western region's culture, which literally translates to "knowing the girls home", took place at the ancestral Mudavadi family home, a sanctuary of heritage and intimacy.
Mudavadi, draped in a finely crafted suit, tenderly bestowed his daughter upon her new central region family, who donned their distinctive tawny brown outfits.
"The wedding was magnificent. Maryane's mother's speech was truly moving. She embraced and talked to us all like our mother," shared an attendee, reflecting on the rarity of such private celebrations in a world obsessed with publicity.
Nyaga and his party, dressed in sleek black attire highlighted by fresh green accents, harmoniously complemented Maryanne's breathtaking ensemble, forming a living tapestry of unity and style.
26-year-old Maryanne, a holder of a Master's degree in Human Resources Management, radiated in her emerald-green floral gown, gracefully adorned with exquisite jewellery that added a touch of opulence.
Prominent figures were notably absent, with only Mudavadi and his wife Tessie gracing the occasion. Standing prominently among the groom's entourage was Davidson Wakairu, the son of Jubilee Vice Chairman David Murathe.
With the groom's siblings and close friends by their side, they brought a combination of family and friendly support, along with a select group of attendees.
"I have never danced Isikuti drums like we did. The wedding was fun, and the music was fun," a close friend told The Nairobian.
Kogos' wedding happened on July 24 in a ceremony that was kept hush-hush.
Indeed, Kenyans only came to learn about it when his mother shared the news on social media.
"My heart was filled with joy and pride as my son Dr. Kim Kogos married his most beautiful bride, Ms. Joy Cheptile," she wrote.
Kigen was the first off the market when he got engaged to Rebecca Chepchumba at a private ceremony in Kericho in May.
"I am proud of my son Kigen Moi for making a monumental stride in this life by seeking Rebecca Chepchumba's hand in marriage. Indeed, this engagement is a beautiful social and spiritual venture ordained by God to ensure companionship and continuity. As they begin formalising their union today in Kericho County, I pray that God's grace, guidance and blessings be always upon them," Gideon wrote on X (formerly Twitter) on May 6.
Former Energy Cabinet Secretary Charles Keter and Lt Gen Mohamed Badi attended.