Luo elders give Ruto a traditional charm to protect him from any harm
President William Ruto has received a traditional charm from Luo elders during the Pinyluo Cultural Festival in Migori County.
The charm is meant to protect him from harm and guide him in his leadership responsibilities.
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In a traditional ceremony on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, elders instructed President Ruto to sit on a small traditional seat, a symbolic act demonstrating trust, recognition, and responsibility.
The elders emphasised that the gesture signifies the expectation that a leader must safeguard the welfare of the people and lead with wisdom and courage.
Symbols of protection and guidance
During the ceremony, Ruto was presented with several items, each carrying deep cultural meaning. A protective skin was draped over him, intended to shield his heart and mind from emotional or spiritual harm.
The elders explained, “The purpose of this skin is to protect your deep heart, to protect your wisdom…to stop anything which might come to hurt you.”
He was also given a spear, described as a tool to confront unjust opposition and defend the people he leads.
As an elder said, “The spear is a sign of war to fight those who are unnecessary…to protect Kenya and the people where you are leading.” A shield was also presented, representing defence against physical or metaphorical threats.
Finally, a ceremonial whisk was handed to the president, symbolising peace.
The elders noted, “Normally, it’s about peace. Peace in your heart, peace in the community you are leading, peace in the people you are interacting with.” Together, these items emphasise a balance of protection, courage, and harmony in leadership.
The traditional charm presented to President William Ruto by Luo elders at the Pinyluo Cultural Festival comes against a tense backdrop of events earlier in December.
On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, security agencies in Migori discovered and safely detonated explosives hidden under a bridge, believed to lie along the president’s route to the festival.
Earlier, Ruto had also been startled during the launch of the Tsavo West Rhino Sanctuary in Taita Taveta when a rhino charged his vehicle, and during Jamhuri Day celebrations at Nyayo Stadium, a low-flying F-5 fighter jet’s sonic boom caused alarm.
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William Muthama
William Muthama is a digital journalist with a focus on entertainment, human interest, and current affairs. Share stories: [email protected]/ [email protected]
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