President William Ruto shared a lighthearted yet slightly awkward moment with First Lady Rachel Ruto during the burial of Kimani Ichung’wah’s father, Isaac Ngugi, on Monday, September 15, 2025.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ruto revealed how he found himself in an amusing situation when Members of Parliament began discussing their ex-girlfriends. “Unajua wakati maneno imesemekana ya ex, nikaona hawa wadosi hapa wanaongea ongea. Wakakua na consultation kubwa hapa,” he said, recalling how the male MPs appeared deeply engaged in conversation about their past relationships.
The president explained how he noticed Rachel’s gaze fixed on him during the discussion. Trying to avoid any awkwardness, he said he kept his eyes straight ahead. “Na mimi nikaona Rachel anajaribu kunitazama, mimi nikakaza macho tu nikaangalia mbele, halafu ni kama alikua ananiuliza hata wewe uko na hii maneno?” Ruto recounted.
To ease the moment, he reassured his wife: “Lakini Rachel si unajua maneno yangu yote naweka wazi?” His remarks drew laughter from the attendees, briefly lightening the somber mood of the funeral.
The event was held in honour of Isaac Ngugi, father of Kimani Ichung’wah, who passed away peacefully at the age of 105 on Thursday, September 4, 2025. While the occasion was solemn, Ruto’s anecdote added a touch of humour and gave the public a glimpse into the personal side of the presidential couple’s relationship.
Ruto’s ability to inject levity even in serious settings reflects his approachable personality and highlights that ordinary marital dynamics, such as questions about past relationships, exist even at the highest levels of government. The story also showed his comfort and openness with the First Lady, underscoring the trust and communication in their marriage.
This lighthearted encounter reminds the public that behind the official duties, personal and relatable moments continue to shape the lives of public figures.
