President Uhuru Kenyatta skipped mentioning of Deputy President William Ruto’s name in full glare of protocol breach during his last Madaraka Day Celebrations at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi
The Head of State then took over the proceedings starting by recognising the invited guests before inviting Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio.
This was a break from tradition where a select Kenyan leaders both government and political are called upon to give a speech.
In last year’s Madaraka Day celebrations which was held at Kisumu Uhuru would be welcomed by Ruto to give his keynote Madaraka Day address and achievements
Kenyans took to social media protesting how the second in command was overlooked whereas others commending the President for his bold action which was interpreted as bad blood between the two who were once like twins
President would only be seen greeting his Deputy President William Ruto, Rachael Ruto alongside ODM chief Raila Odinga when he was heading to dias, all at which, shook hands as he said only two words.
After the Madaraka Day celebrations, leaders allied to Kenya Kwanza Coalition took to the social media and political rallies blasting President for not recognizing his Deputy in a national celebrations event
“It’s written in the Bible, wanaokudharau watakusalimia kwa heshima (those who mocks you will greet you respectfully), Deputy President will be your successor whether you like it or not,” Dogorret South MP John Kiarie said
Former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo also took issue over President’s action, where he accompanied DP Ruto, addressing public rally at Kiambu immediately after Madaraka Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi