President William Ruto’s recent state visit to the United States didn’t just attract attention for diplomatic discussions but also for the noticeable displays of affection between President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto.
The sight of the couple holding hands, a gesture less common in African cultural contexts, drew both admiration and humorous commentary back in Kenya.
Upon his return, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua added a lighthearted touch to the situation during the National Prayer Breakfast.
While initially praising President Ruto’s trip and speech in the US, Gachagua couldn’t resist jesting about the “pressure” it placed on Kenyan husbands, including himself, as he humorously recounted the hand-holding episode.
This playful remark sparked laughter from the leaders and dignitaries in attendance, adding a moment of levity to the event.
“All Kenyans were monitoring what you were doing in the States. And there is something you were doing there that created problems for many husbands across the country. When you were walking holding the first lady’s hands, it put us back here under immense pressure,” said Gachagua.
He shared that his wife, Pastor Dorcas, was inspired by the President’s gesture and demanded similar affection, even around their home.
This, Gachagua humorously noted, had also affected other leaders like Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, leading to lighthearted banter about the challenge it posed for them.
“Our spouses led by mine, Pastor Dorcas, were demanding that we emulate the president and hold their hand wherever we go. Mine, and you know she is a pastor, even went beyond and demanded that I walk her to the car that even around the house I hold her hand. I was not alone, even Musalia asked me whether this holding hands had caused issues at his home. And I told him I’m witnessing even much trouble,” he said triggering laughter.
Gachagua continued his playful critique by pointing out that President Ruto appeared to revert to his usual behaviour upon returning to Kenya, as he noticed the President walking ahead of the First Lady at the Safari Park.
“We had that challenge but I knew you would solve that problem for us when you come back. And this morning you did just that. As we welcomed you from your car to the hold room, you were walking fast with me chatting as Mama Rachel was trying to catch up with you as we came to this room. So the matter is sorted, that was an American thing,” said Gachagua further sparking laughter.
Gachagua playfully assured that he would follow President Ruto’s lead with affectionate gestures while in the US but would revert to customary practices upon returning home. As he wrapped up his remarks, Gachagua jokingly warned that President Ruto might find himself summoned to the imaginary men’s conference to explain the hand-holding incident.
In response, when President Ruto took the stage to deliver his address, he acknowledged the jest with a promise to “answer” to the conference, adding a touch of humor to the situation.
“It’s true that I have been summoned by men’s conference. And I will go and answer,” he said further triggering a moment of humor.
