A photo of President William Ruto and his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa, sharing drinks on Thursday, November 10, drew mixed reactions among Kenyans.
The photo, as seen by Kenyans.co.ke, captured the two presidents enjoying the drinks served in wine glasses.
Kenyans were quick to react, with some stating that the head of state was enjoying the trappings of power and was slowly changing his lifestyle.
Ruto is a stickler for fitness who does not fancy alcoholic drinks.
“Ruto is like, but you know I don't even drink wine!” Maxwell Koech trolled the President.
"The President stated that he is not a drunkard,” Patrick Wandera added.
Others alleged that the President was coerced to drink to please his counterpart.
“This man (Ramaphosa) wants to influence our President,” Virginia Kariuki lamented.
However, it was not yet ascertained whether the drink was non-alcoholic or an intoxicant as some claimed.
Foreign affairs experts detailed that international protocol directs heads of state to celebrate their foreign counterparts, from organising state dinners to offering gifts.
A protocol team is also trained to run impeccable multilateral events, head of state visits, media tours and photo sessions.
Meanwhile, Ruto's fitness level has always been a subject of debate. On October 22, former Nyeri Town MP, Ngunjiri Wambugu, disclosed that the President runs for 8 kilometres daily, a tradition he has upheld for over 10 years.
"At breakfast before we went for a church service, I actually asked Ruto what he did to stay in such shape. He told me he tries to put in some exercise every day, including running for 8 kilometres daily for over 10 years.
"He assured me he had seen it make a difference, especially for people in active politics," Ngunjiri explained.
During the presidential debate, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claimed to be on the same page as the President.
He claimed to abhor alcohol and even hit the gym to reduce weight.
“ I’m hardworking, passionate, I wake up early, I don’t take alcohol, and I have all the time and commitment to serve the people of Kenya,” Gachagua stated.
