Ruto rebukes Governor Sakaja over his dress code at State House function
President William Ruto on Thursday lightened the mood at State House with a playful remark on how some leaders were dressed during an official function.
President William Ruto on Thursday lightened the mood at State House with a playful remark on how some leaders were dressed during an official function.
Speaking during the signing of the Agreement for the Modern Arena and Entertainment District in Nairobi, Ruto drew laughter after questioning whether some attendees had anticipated the formal setting.
“I was looking at the people who came to this occasion, including the governor of Nairobi, and I was asking myself if they are here by design or if they were waylaid,” Ruto said, prompting laughter from the audience.
“The way they are dressed, they don’t look like they knew they were coming to State House.”
The President, who spoke in a light and humorous tone, went on to suggest stricter adherence to dress expectations for official events.
“I think next time I would ask the people at the gate not to allow people dressing like that, especially when they’re coming for a serious function like this,” he said, chuckling.
Among those present was Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, who, like several other attendees, appeared in a more relaxed outfit compared to the traditional formal attire often associated with State House events.
Sakaja wore a long-sleeved patterned shirt without a tie, paired with trousers, a look that leaned more towards smart casual than formal.
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Around him, several guests were similarly dressed in open-collar shirts and light fabrics, with noticeably fewer suits and ties than is typical for such high-level engagements.
The relaxed dress code stood out against the backdrop of the formal State House setting, where official functions usually see attendees in full business or ceremonial attire.
Despite the remarks, the atmosphere remained upbeat.
The event itself marked a significant step in plans to develop a modern arena and entertainment district in Nairobi, a project aimed at boosting the city’s profile as a regional hub for sports, culture and entertainment.
Ruto’s comments added a lighter moment to the proceedings, highlighting a contrast between evolving fashion trends in professional spaces and long-standing expectations of formal dress in official government settings.
While largely humorous, the President’s remarks subtly underscored the importance traditionally placed on decorum at State House functions, even as dress styles continue to shift, urging attendees to dress like it.
The exchange drew amusement from attendees, reflecting a moment where protocol met personality in a setting often defined by formality.
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