In a surprising and rare display of unity, President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua attended their first public event together on Saturday, November 16, 2024, in Embu County.
The occasion, which saw the consecration and installation of Bishop Peter Kimani Ndung’u, left many Kenyans both puzzled and intrigued by the unexpected gathering of these prominent political figures.
The event, which attracted thousands of attendees, largely composed of Catholic faithful, marked a significant moment in Kenya’s political landscape, as it was the first time that Ruto and Gachagua have met face-to-face since the latter’s swift impeachment in October 2024.
The political drama surrounding Gachagua’s ousting had left a rift between the two, making their appearance at the same event particularly noteworthy.
The ceremony began with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s early arrival, accompanied by a section of Mount Kenya region politicians.
Gachagua, who was impeached by the Senate in October, was the first to be seen entering the venue and taking his seat in the regular section of the congregation, alongside his political allies.
President Ruto arrived moments later with his deputy, Kithure Kindiki.
The two were greeted warmly by the crowd, which had gathered to witness the consecration of Bishop Ndung’u. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta was the last to arrive, joining the event in a more reserved manner and taking his seat in the Very Important Persons (VIP) section.
This seating arrangement, with Ruto and Kenyatta in the VIP section and Gachagua in the regular seats, caught the attention of many attendees and observers alike.
While many expected the three leaders to share the front row, this arrangement highlighted the ongoing tensions between the key players in the current political scene. Despite the public presence of the former and current political powerhouses, the ceremony remained focused on the religious significance of the occasion.
As the event proceeded, the atmosphere was one of celebration and religious reverence.
The congregation expressed their joy with cheers as the dignitaries were introduced, particularly welcoming the sight of President Ruto and former President Kenyatta attending together.
Bishop Muheria, who led the ceremony, took the opportunity to comment on the importance of the event, noting that it was a “year of grace” and a symbol of respect to see the leaders gather in support of Bishop Kimani Ndung’u’s new role in the church.
“It is such a respectful sight to see the President join us here today alongside his deputy. It is also important to see other politicians also join us,” Bishop Muheria said.
He further expressed his gratitude to Bishop Ndung’u for accepting the call to serve in the Lord’s house, a gesture that was echoed by many in the congregation.
In an interesting twist, Ruto’s attendance at the event came just one day after he had made public remarks about the role of the clergy in Kenya’s political discourse.
Speaking at the Tangaza University graduation ceremony on Friday, November 15, the President urged religious leaders to refrain from spreading misinformation and instead work with the government to help fulfill its promises to Kenyans.
His call was seen as a direct challenge to some elements within the clergy who have been critical of his administration.
“I urge the clergy to stop fuelling misinformation,” Ruto said. “Let us work together to support the development agenda and ensure that we deliver for the people.”
The President’s remarks have sparked debate across the country, with many wondering if his plea for cooperation with the clergy signals a shift in his approach to addressing growing tensions between the government and religious leaders.
While the event was primarily religious in nature, the presence of these four powerful political figures together sent a subtle but powerful message to the nation.
It is rare for such high-profile politicians, especially those with a history of rivalry like Ruto and Uhuru, to appear publicly in such a setting.
The event could signify a shift towards more cooperation or a momentary truce between Kenya’s political elite, particularly in the wake of Gachagua’s impeachment and the deep divisions that have marked the political landscape in recent months.
For now, however, the full implications of this rare gathering remain unclear. Will this public display of unity lead to more collaborative efforts between the leaders? Or is it a brief, symbolic gesture with no lasting impact on their relationships? Only time will tell.
