Journalist Larry Madowo poses for a photo with Isaya Yunge and Charlene Ruto during their engagement in Kilgoris / HANDOUTJournalist Larry Madowo has come under criticism from some Kenyans on X after attending President William Ruto’s daughter Charlene Ruto’s engagement ceremony.
Madowo was among the high-profile guests at the traditional Koito ceremony held at Intonna Heritage Farm in Kilgoris, Narok County, where Charlene got engaged to Tanzanian technology entrepreneur Isaya Yunge.
He was seen interacting with guests and chatting with President Ruto and other leaders.
The ceremony brought together relatives and friends from Kenya and Tanzania as the two families formally celebrated the couple’s union.
After attending the event, Madowo posted a congratulatory message to the couple.
“Harusi tunayooo! Hongera sana,” he said.
He later added, "Proud of my little brother Isaya for getting his bride, Charlene. Welcome to the family.”
His attendance sparked criticism from some Kenyans, with Madowo reacting over it, saying, “Cancel Larry Madowo."
Purity Mwangi said, "Your wish is our command. Stop daring people in this era of cancel culture.”
Others, however, defended Madowo, arguing that political differences should not dictate personal relationships or attendance at family ceremonies.
Alicia Kerry said Madowo should not be considered cancelled, arguing that people should be allowed to maintain personal relationships despite political differences.
“Some people are here commenting, and if they were invited by the president or his daughter, they would run in a heartbeat!" she said.
ItsGregy similarly defended Madowo, questioning why he should not attend a ceremony involving a close friend because of political differences.
“So someone should not attend a ceremony of a close friend because of their political differences? Let people be buana,” he said.
Another user, Shatevajr, described the calls to cancel Madowo over the wedding guest list as being driven by envy.
“Politicians have friends outside of office, & you can’t force someone to change their personal circle just because you hate the president,” the user said.
The 'cancel' culture is unfollowing or not supporting people on social media or in real life for doing what did not please them.
Koito is a traditional Kalenjin pre-marriage ceremony in which the families of the bride and groom formally meet to discuss and affirm the union before the wedding.
The occasion was marked by cultural performances, traditional attire, music and celebrations as the families came together to bless the relationship.
President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto celebrated the engagement of their daughter, Charlene.
In a message after the ceremony, Ruto said he and the First Lady were grateful as Charlene began a beautiful new chapter with her fiancé, Tanzanian technology entrepreneur Isaya Yunge.
"Today, MamaRachelRuto and I celebrate with grateful hearts as our daughter Charlene begins a beautiful new chapter with her fiancé, Isaya Yunge," the President said.
He expressed pride in the couple and pledged his family's continued support.
"As your parents, we are proud of you, we rejoice with you, and we will always stand beside you," Ruto said.
