The event, attended by several high-profile guests including Heads of State, was meant to rally support for Raila’s bid for this influential role within the African Union.
Protocol is typically a major aspect of presidential events, especially those held at State House. Traditionally, the President speaks last, and a special podium is reserved exclusively for him.
However, during this particular occasion, President Ruto broke away from these traditions, choosing instead to make the event more inclusive and spiritually grounded.
As the event was coming to a close, President Ruto invited Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, the Second Lady, to lead a prayer over Raila Odinga’s candidature.
This move was not only a break from the usual protocol but also a significant gesture, highlighting the importance of spiritual support in such a crucial moment for Kenya’s candidate.
When Pastor Dorcas was called upon, event handlers quickly moved to bring a podium for her. However, in another departure from the norm, President Ruto intervened, instructing them not to set up a separate podium.
Instead, he asked Pastor Dorcas to use the presidential podium. This small but symbolic act demonstrated the President’s respect for her role and the significance he placed on the prayer she was about to offer.
“Let me request our Second Lady, Pastor Dorcas, to come forward and pray over the candidature of the Honorable Raila Odinga,” President Ruto announced to the gathered dignitaries.
Pastor Dorcas, taking her place at the presidential podium, expressed her deep belief in the Pan-African spirit. Her words were powerful and resonated with the audience as she spoke about the need for collective prayer and commitment from all Kenyans, East Africans, and the entire African continent.
“I am a believer in the Pan-African spirit, and therefore as I stand here, I believe that all of us who are in Kenya, East Africa, and the entire Africa will pray with passion, zeal, commitment, and understanding for our candidate,” Pastor Dorcas stated.
Her prayer was a fitting conclusion to an event that was as much about politics as it was about faith and the collective African identity. The fact that she spoke after several high-profile leaders, including Heads of State, further highlighted the importance of her role in the ceremony.
President Ruto’s decision to break protocol in this manner was well-received by many, as it demonstrated his willingness to blend tradition with a modern, inclusive approach to leadership.
By allowing Pastor Dorcas to use his podium and closing the event with a prayer, he sent a strong message of unity, respect, and the significance of spiritual guidance in leadership.
This event will likely be remembered as a key moment in Raila Odinga’s campaign for the AUC Chairperson position, not just for the political endorsements it received, but also for the spiritual support that was so publicly and prominently displayed.
The gesture by President Ruto and the heartfelt prayer by Pastor Dorcas could very well serve as a source of inspiration and strength as Raila embarks on this new chapter in his political career.
0 Comments