Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has broken his silence after a weekend of online ridicule over his outfit and educational credentials — and his response is raising eyebrows: “I’m enjoying it.”
The former Kiambu Governor, who was sworn in as ICT CS on January 17, found himself at the center of a trending online storm when a photo of him dressed in what many dubbed an “unofficial official look” went viral. The image — featuring Kabogo in a baggy white shirt, red necktie, tight brown khaki trousers, brown striped socks and safari shoes — ignited a meme fest across Kenyan social media.
While the fashion critique started as a joke, it quickly escalated into questions about his academic qualifications and his suitability to lead Kenya’s digital transformation.
“Kenyans are ungovernable! The ICT CS Kabogo meme challenge has taken over the internet,” commented one user on X (formerly Twitter), capturing the mood of a nation both amused and divided.
But Kabogo, unfazed by the backlash, finally addressed the mockery on Tuesday evening through his official X account. “I am enjoying it. If no one makes such, you need to be very worried,” he posted, signaling that he’s taking the viral moment in stride.
Public reaction to his statement was mixed. While some applauded his calm demeanor and sense of humor, others reignited concerns about image and professionalism in public service.
“It’s not about clothes; it’s about leadership,” said Nairobi-based analyst Joy Mumo. “But in the public eye, perception matters. And in a digital age, one viral image can shift the conversation.”
Kabogo, known for his boldness and charisma, has remained vocal about his commitment to Kenya’s digitisation agenda. During his swearing-in ceremony, he pledged to lead a full-scale ICT overhaul in government: “We should be able to digitise our ministry 100 per cent and start moving towards digitising the entire government so that we can serve Kenyans quickly, efficiently and in real time.”
Whether the online storm will fade or continue to influence public perception of the CS remains to be seen. But for now, Kabogo’s message is clear: if you’re being talked about — you’re doing something right.
And for Kenyans? The memes may just keep coming.
Written By Linah Towett
