Awkward moment as Kindiki’s hat falls off during meeting with Mt Kenya leaders
By Paulette Mboga, September 19, 2026Deputy President Kithure Kindiki was left in an awkward moment after his traditional hat fell off his head during a meeting with Mt Kenya elders at Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County.
The incident happened on Saturday, September 19, 2026, as Kindiki sat down during the meeting. Those around him quickly helped him pick up the hat and tried to put it back on his head.
The moment came during Kindiki’s installation as the Mt Kenya spokesperson at the gathering, where he was meeting elders from Mt Kenya West for the first time.
The meeting brought together Kindiki and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, who were both presented with traditional regalia by the elders. The regalia was meant to symbolise the solemnity of the ceremony.
Kindiki’s traditional hat causes awkward moment
Before the ceremony began, the elders dressed Kindiki in traditional regalia as he prepared to join the assembly at the stadium. The meeting was part of engagements with Mt Kenya elders as efforts to unite the region continue.
The gathering also marked Kindiki’s first meeting with Mt Kenya West elders. His previous engagements in the region had mainly been held on the eastern side.
Hundreds of elders were seen making their way into the venue while singing traditional songs and wearing traditional attire. The gathering at Kirigiti Stadium brought together elders for the Saturday engagement.
Kindiki’s meeting with the elders comes days after he was coronated as a Njuri Ncheke elder at the Njuri Ncheke shrines in Meru County. The ceremony elevated his standing among the region’s traditional leadership.
At Kirigiti, Kindiki was presented with traditional regalia before taking part in the meeting with the elders. Ruku was also presented with traditional regalia during the ceremony.
The hat incident happened as the proceedings continued, with those seated around Kindiki helping after it fell from his head. They attempted to put it back as the Deputy President remained seated.
The meeting is part of Kindiki’s continued engagement with elders in the Mt Kenya region. The Saturday gathering also brought attention to his new role as the Mt Kenya spokesperson.