In a remarkable turn of events, Kenya’s top political figures converged at a Catholic Church ceremony in Embu on Saturday.
President William Ruto, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua attended the same event.
From right: President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and former President Uhuru Kenyatta during the installation of Embu Catholic Bishop Peter Kimani Ndung’u on November 16, 2024. Courtesy photo
The occasion was the consecration and installation of Rt. Reverend Peter Kimani as the new Bishop of Embu Catholic Diocese.
This gathering marked the first time these political leaders shared a platform since Gachagua’s impeachment in October 2024.
The event drew significant attention due to the visible tension between the current and former leaders.
Gachagua arrived first at the ceremony, maintaining his strong presence in the Mount Kenya region despite recent political setbacks.
President Ruto and Deputy President Kindiki followed shortly after, while former President Kenyatta was the last to arrive.
The seating arrangements at the ceremony clearly reflected the current political climate.
President Ruto, DP Kindiki, and former President Kenyatta were seated in the VIP section of the church.
However, former Deputy President Gachagua sat in the regular section alongside his allied Members of Parliament.
The speaking arrangements further highlighted the political dynamics at play during the ceremony.
President Ruto, Deputy President Kindiki, and former President Kenyatta were all given opportunities to address the congregation.
Notably, Gachagua was not invited to speak at the event, marking a significant departure from his previous status.
The snub was particularly noticeable given Gachagua’s former position as Deputy President and his influence in the region.
Political observers noted the careful choreography of the event to maintain peace and order.
The leaders maintained their distance, with reports indicating that Ruto and Gachagua notably avoided greeting each other.
This behaviour highlighted the continuing strain in their relationship following October’s impeachment proceedings.
The event showcased the complex political landscape in Kenya’s Mount Kenya region.
Gachagua has been working to maintain his political influence in the area since his removal from office.
His presence at the ceremony, despite the apparent snub, demonstrated his determination to remain politically relevant.
The church event also marked a rare public appearance by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Kenyatta has largely stayed away from public events since leaving office after the last election.
His presence added another layer of significance to the already historic gathering.
The ceremony itself was conducted with dignity, focusing on its religious significance.
Rt. Reverend Peter Kimani’s installation as the new Bishop of Embu Catholic Diocese proceeded smoothly.
The religious occasion provided a neutral ground for these political figures to share the same space.
Local residents turned out in large numbers to witness both the religious ceremony and the political drama.
Many were curious to see how the leaders would interact given the recent political developments.
The event highlighted the role of religious institutions in bringing together political leaders despite their differences.
Security was visibly enhanced during the ceremony to ensure peaceful proceedings.
The gathering demonstrated that despite political rivalries, leaders can still attend important national events.
However, the careful management of seating arrangements and speaking opportunities revealed underlying tensions.
This historic meeting in Embu may set the tone for future interactions between these political figures.
The event showed how religious ceremonies continue to serve as neutral grounds for political leaders.
It also demonstrated the ongoing evolution of Kenya’s political landscape following recent changes in leadership.