The National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday May 30 took a humorous turn as President William Ruto revealed that he has been summoned by the infamous Men’s Conference. The summon comes following his affectionate display of holding hands in public with First Lady Rachael Ruto during his recent three-day state visit to the USA, a move that seemingly ruffled a few feathers among Kenyan men.
Speaking at the Safari Park Hotel, President Ruto humorously addressed the situation, saying he is now a “wanted man” due to his public display of affection. “It is true, that I have been summoned by the Men’s Conference,” he said, noting that the Men’s Conference has invited him to explain his actions.
How President Ruto caused problems
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who also spoke at the event, did not hold back his amusement. He pointed out that the President’s actions had inadvertently caused “many problems” for husbands across the country. “Your Excellency, there was something that you were doing here that created problems for many husbands across the country. When you were walking there holding the hand of the first lady, it put us back here under a lot of pressure. Our spouses, led by mine, pst. Dorcas, were demanding we emulate the president and hold their hand,” Gachagua said, drawing laughter from the crowd.
Gachagua humorously suggested that President Ruto should reconsider his public displays of affection now that he’s back in Kenya. “Mr. President, maybe leave that hand-holding thing because it is for American people,” he joked.
The Men’s Conference, often mentioned in jest, is a gathering of men that discusses the well-being and challenges faced by men in Kenya. While the President’s “summons” is undoubtedly in good humour, it exposed the stark differences in traditional African perceptions of showing affection and the modern European culture.
Despite the light-hearted banter, Gachagua also took the opportunity to praise President Ruto’s successful trip to the USA. “Kenyans are very proud of how you represented us. Your speech was perfect, and you’ve put Kenya on the world map with the gains you’ve negotiated for our country,” he said.
