Public figures who dominate political headlines often evoke mixed reactions, both at home and abroad, especially when their actions challenge state authority or disrupt established power structures.
For many Kenyans in the diaspora, such personalities are not just newsmakers but symbols of political resistance, controversy, and national identity.
It is within this context that Canada-based Kenyan nurse Joyce has shared a personal account of an unexpected encounter with controversial lawyer Miguna Miguna in Toronto—an interaction that has since sparked conversation among Kenyans online.
In a social media post, Joyce recounted how she spotted Miguna while queuing at a bank in Toronto, describing the moment as both surprising and memorable.
According to her, it was a rare occasion for her to visit a physical bank, given that most services in Canada are conducted online.
“I was waiting in line and noticed Miguna Miguna also queuing. You know how the lines coil around? Our eyes met,” she said.
Joyce noted that she was casually dressed at the time, explaining that such relaxed dressing is common in Canada. Despite the informal setting, she said there was an unspoken recognition between the two.
“I noticed a smile on his face. It felt like that familiar nostalgia when you unexpectedly meet a fellow Kenyan abroad,” she added.
She further revealed that she was accompanied by her young children, some of whom were still in diapers, creating a lively and chaotic scene as she spoke to them in Kiswahili.
According to Joyce, this may have made it evident to Miguna that she was Kenyan.
“I really wanted to walk over, shake his hand, or even give him a hug,” she said, noting that such encounters often evoke a sense of home among Kenyans living abroad.
However, Joyce admitted she hesitated and ultimately did not approach him—a decision she says she later regretted.
“For days afterward, I kept thinking, ‘I should have just said hi,’” she stated.
Miguna Miguna remains a prominent and polarising figure in Kenyan politics.
He gained widespread attention following his role in the controversial 2018 NASA swearing-in ceremony, where he administered an oath to opposition leader Raila Odinga as the “People’s President.”
The act led to his arrest, deportation, and a prolonged legal and political battle with the Kenyan government.
His forced return to Canada and subsequent standoffs with authorities elevated his profile internationally, cementing his status as both a critic of the state and a figure of public fascination.
Joyce concluded her reflection by expressing hope that she might one day meet Miguna again—this time with the courage to say hello.
“If I ever get another chance, I will definitely greet him,” she said.