On June 1, 2022, Deputy President William Ruto was noticeably absent from the Madaraka Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens Memorial Park, where President Uhuru Kenyatta took center stage.
According to sources, this was an unusual protocol deviation from the Jubilee administration's standard practice.
DP Ruto later took to his social media platforms to address the event, stating, "Joined President Uhuru Kenyatta and Kenyans at Uhuru Gardens to commemorate this wonderful day."
He also emphasized the importance of the day, saying, "Today we celebrate 59 years of Madaraka but we must not forget that we are responsible for the next years ahead, we are the makers of this nation, let us choose a path of progress, unity and prosperity."
However, it is widely expected that the second in command will respond to the perceived snub during a rally in Kiambu, where his allies are expected to support him.
DP Ruto's digital strategist, Dennis Itumbi, has stated that the country's number two will continue engaging with Kenyans despite the perceived persecution by the State.
