Pomp. Power as Ruto Attends Private Mombasa Wedding

Traffic in Mombasa came to a standstill on Saturday as a convoy of high-end vehicles announced the arrival of President William Ruto, who was in the coastal city to attend the extravagant wedding of Zakir Khosla, the son of prominent businessman Imran Khosla.

The wedding, infused with Arabic themes, coincided with significant personal milestones for the President, including his birthday and wedding anniversary. First Lady Rachel Ruto marked the occasion on social media, expressing her gratitude for her husband's dedication to their family. Her message underscored the day's importance for the First Family amid the grandeur of the wedding festivities.

Hosted at a location kept under wraps, the ceremony adhered to traditional Muslim customs, allowing Zakir Khosla and his bride to exchange vows in front of a select group of high-profile guests. Among the attendees were Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, all dressed in elegant traditional attire that added to the ceremony’s luxurious ambience.

Celebrated Tanzanian artist Diamond Platinumz provided a musical backdrop that electrified the event. The scale of the event was evident from the outset, with a convoy of over 40 luxurious vehicles, including Ferraris, Rolls-Royces, Bentleys, and Mercedes G-Wagons, making a striking red carpet entrance that set the tone for the celebration.

President Ruto's dual role as both a guest of honour and birthday celebrant was highlighted during the festivities. A heartwarming moment arose when he was presented with a cake by three elegantly dressed women, each feeding him a piece as the crowd sang Happy Birthday. The President's cheerful dancing during this celebration displayed a lighter side, contrasting with the more serious undertones of his political life.

The event also facilitated an opportunity for the Khosla family to interact with the President, capturing numerous photographs that chronicled this moment of joy. In his remarks to the newlyweds, President Ruto emphasized the critical role of parents in instilling moral values in their children to address rising crime and social issues, noting that the government could not replace parental guidance in character development.