Nyamira, Kenya – A man shocked guests at a high school fundraiser in Nyamira County when he publicly refused to shake hands with his own father, claiming he feared being bewitched.
The man, known as Bidii, had just spoken at the event, which was held to raise funds for the school. As part of the program, he was expected to hand over the microphone to his father and shake his hand before stepping off the podium.
Instead, Bidii threw the microphone at his father and refused any physical contact, leaving the crowd in stunned silence.
While some guests thought Bidii may have been concerned about health risks like COVID-19, he later explained that his actions were based on personal fears and long-held beliefs.
“I did not want to shake his hand because I have always suspected that he practices witchcraft,” Bidii reportedly told close friends after the incident. “He pretends to be a good man in public, but I know he is like a snake in the grass—waiting to strike.”
Sources close to the family revealed that Bidii has had a strained relationship with his father for years. Some believe that a family disagreement or unresolved past conflicts may have contributed to the dramatic public gesture.
Many people at the fundraiser were left confused and uncomfortable, with some wondering if there were deeper family issues behind the dramatic moment.
“He embarrassed his father in front of the whole community,” said one elder who attended the event. “Even if they have differences, there are better ways to handle it.”
Others in the crowd expressed sympathy for the father, who quietly returned to his seat without responding to the incident.
In many African communities, respect for elders and parents is considered sacred. Refusing a handshake—especially in public—is seen as a serious act of disrespect.
However, beliefs in witchcraft and spiritual harm remain strong in some parts of Kenya, especially in rural areas like Nyamira. It’s not uncommon for people to avoid physical contact with those they suspect may bring them bad luck or spiritual harm.
While the event continued after the incident, the mood had noticeably shifted. It remains unclear whether the family will resolve their differences, or whether the situation will lead to further public tension.
Community leaders have called for dialogue and reconciliation, urging families to seek peaceful ways of addressing personal and cultural conflicts.
