7 photos of President Ruto in full military fatigue at Moi Barracks in Eldoret

President William Ruto made a dramatic and symbolic appearance in full Kenya Army combat uniform, marking his first public outing in military attire since assuming office in September 2022.

Ruto's images, shared online, quickly went viral, drawing widespread reaction and admiration from Kenyans who hailed the rare display of presidential command.

The Head of State, who also serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), was photographed walking out of his office before departing for Moi Barracks, Eldoret, to preside over this year’s KDF Day celebrations.

KDF Day is an annual event set aside to honour the sacrifice, discipline, and courage of Kenya’s servicemen and women, both in active duty and those who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation.

Clad in full jungle fatigues complete with the Commander-in-Chief insignia, President Ruto’s presence commanded attention and stirred excitement online.

Many Kenyans described the look as powerful and fitting, noting that it reflected his role as the nation’s top military authority. Others saw it as a symbolic act of unity, a show of solidarity with the men and women in uniform who continue to safeguard Kenya’s borders and uphold peace missions abroad.

While the President’s attire bore the markings of a 5-Star General, keen observers noted that Kenya’s highest serving military rank remains four-star General, a position currently held by General Charles Muriu Kahariri, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).

Under the Kenya Defence Forces Act No. 25 of 2012 and Article 131(1)(c) of the Constitution, the President is vested with the authority to appoint the CDF, the Vice Chief of Defence Forces, and the Service Commanders.

As the Commander-in-Chief, President Ruto plays a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s defence policy, providing strategic direction, and ensuring the readiness and welfare of the armed forces.

General Kahariri, who hails from the Kenya Navy, currently serves as the country’s highest-ranking military officer and principal advisor to the President and the National Security Council, assisted by Lieutenant General John M. Omenda, the Vice Chief of Defence Forces.

President Ruto’s decision to wear military fatigues during the KDF Day ceremony places him among Kenya’s past heads of state who embraced similar traditions.

The late President Daniel arap Moi was often seen in ceremonial uniforms during national parades, while former President Uhuru Kenyatta occasionally wore KDF fatigues when addressing troops or attending security briefings.

KDF Day, held in Eldoret, celebrated the resilience, dedication, and bravery of the military.