Disrupted protocol: Unconventional departure at 2023 Jamhuri Day celebrations sparks debate

During the 2023 Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, established presidential protocols appeared to have been disregarded as senior government figures departed in a different order than tradition dictates.

Typically, after the head of state's speech, the official departure sequence involves the head of state, followed by their spouse, the first lady, and then the deputy.

However, as President William Ruto concluded his address, the usual order was disrupted. He was followed by his wife, Rachael Ruto, and then by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. The master of ceremonies explained that Mudavadi's procession should have followed the First Lady's, supposedly because he was "scheduled to welcome guests at the State House in Nairobi."

The altered procession order, with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following Mudavadi, sparked inquiries into the protocols governing the presidency and leadership, particularly at national events.

Exiting Uhuru Gardens, Dr. Ruto was accompanied by Mudavadi, Gachagua, and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja. Notable dignitaries from abroad graced the 2023 Jamhuri Day celebrations under Dr. Ruto's leadership, including President Hussein Ali Mwinyi of Zanzibar (Tanzania) and President Sahle Work Zewde of Ethiopia.

Other dignitaries in attendance included Vice President Prosper Bazombanza of Burundi and the Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda, Rebecca Kadaga, who also serves as the Minister of East African Community Affairs.

Ambassadors from various countries also attended the commemoration of Kenya's 60 years of independence. Mudavadi's recent representation of President Ruto on international trips has raised questions about the dynamics between Ruto and his deputy.

Nevertheless, Gachagua maintained that they were in sync, stating that he travels abroad only when necessary and finds joy in serving Kenyans within the country.