President William Ruto cut short his Coast region development tour, returning to Nairobi after Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kwale Stadium. Despite a packed schedule, including launching affordable housing in Mombasa, he canceled all planned events which were to last one week.
In contrast to previous visits, Ruto had no public engagements, with limited access and tight security. His motorcade avoided Changamwe, where he usually addresses crowds. The president delivered a 43-minute address in Kwale, sticking to a written speech, except for brief remarks in Kiswahili on his plans for the landless.
The Mashujaa Day program seemed rushed, with Ruto arriving 25 minutes earlier than scheduled. Soldiers hurriedly prepared the parade as he arrived from the Kwale State Lodge. Unlike his past interactions, Ruto did not freely engage with the public.
Notably absent were political allies like Nyali MP Mohamed Ali, and his usual welcoming team at Moi International Airport. Meanwhile, impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claimed he was blocked from flying to Kwale by orders restricting helicopter access.
At the event, Interior CS Kithure Kindiki sat beside the president, occupying the seat typically reserved for the deputy president, raising further speculation about the changes in protocol and program.
By Nairobi