Ruto vs Uhuru: Who Wore It Better?

President William Ruto’s recent appearance in full military uniform has ignited lively discussion online, with many Kenyans drawing comparisons between his look and that of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

The head of state donned a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) jungle camouflage uniform during the 2025 KDF Day celebrations at Moi Barracks, Eldoret.

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This marked Ruto’s first time wearing full military regalia since assuming office in 2022.

Unlike the formal red ceremonial tunic often seen during national holidays, Ruto opted for operational fatigues — complete with badges, epaulettes, and combat boots.

The attire is typically worn by the Kenya Army and was viewed by many as a symbolic show of solidarity with troops in the field.

According to the KDF website, Uhuru Kenyatta previously wore full military dress when receiving King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein of Jordan, among other occasions.

His appearances were more formal, often reflecting state ceremony rather than field operations.

Online, however, Kenyans turned the comparison into a humorous debate about “presidential aura.” While some applauded Ruto’s hands-on style, others mocked his appearance, arguing that the outfit diminished his gravitas.

“He looks more like a militia than a head of state,” wrote one user.
“Aura is not auraing,” another commented.

Here are some of the reactions that followed:

@mwirigiboss: “No aura ata cintimeter moja.”
@mawiraX: “Anakaa yule beshte yake wa Sudan.”
@RonaldOmuga7: “He looks more of a militia than head of state.”
@Erickmwangiii: “Aura is not auraing.”
@Am_EdinM: “Omwami Ruto aura ni ya administration police ??.”
@jamakiauto: “He looks intimidated by the combat uniform.”
@Okongoams: “@grok, give him an M134 mini gun.”
@mwaitweets: “Looks so ugly.”
@esolojnr: “Zero aura.”
@Gryshon: “Looks like the bandit he is.”
@NewKenyaRise: “Commander in thief ??.”

Still, others defended the president’s choice, saying his military look reflected humility and closeness to Kenya’s defence forces rather than pomp.

The presidential uniform holds deep symbolic value — signifying the Commander-in-Chief’s authority over the armed forces.

Kenyan presidents traditionally wear the jungle green combat uniform for military functions and the red ceremonial tunic for national celebrations such as Jamhuri Day.