President William Ruto on Thursday, March 30, returned to the country after a four-day trip to Europe where he visited Germany and Belgium.
Ruto who jetted back from Belgium was received at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by top security organs in the country, including his deputy Rigathi Gachagua.
Ruto's return coincided with Azimio leader Raila Odinga's countrywide protests as the faction agitates for the lowering of the cost of living and electoral justice.
Leading the pack was the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Robert Kibochi who also accompanied President Ruto on inspecting a guard of honour.
CDF is the highest-ranking military officer in the Kenya Defence Forces and the principal military adviser to President Ruto and the National Security Council.
Security Analyst Maalim Mustafa Ali explained that Ruto had to demonstrate a strength of character, especially, now that his reign is under pressure both locally and abroad.
According to security analysts Ruto needed to show that he was still in command of the security forces, and they were duly pledging allegiance to his reign.
"The show of strength is necessary because authority is not only exercised, it is also demonstrated to the members of the public," Ali explained.
There is also a responsibility aspect to the warm welcome that the President was accorded on his return from Europe.
"It is true that the individuals who welcome the Head of State normally do so as part of the modus operandi, but it is more significant when the country is facing tension or a threat," Ali noted.
However, analysts also observed that Ruto needed to put up a show of responsibility for the whole nation.
The demonstration of power and authority comes with showcasing the trappings including heavy military presence, including a highly mounted parade.
When it comes to taking care of both the sitting and Retired Presidency, Security Analyst Kíríku wa Kinyanjui noted that it's broadly still the responsibility of the military in collaboration with police to ensure the head of state is guarded against threats.
"A retired Commander-in-Chief can only be protected by the military in times of chaos," Kinyanjui stated.
