In a rare display of linguistic flair, President William Ruto turned to Dholuo during parts of his speech at this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations to strike a chord with the local crowd and underscore his administration’s commitment to work.
Addressing the sea of attendees at the Raila Odinga Stadium, the President concluded his address with a switch to the native language and Swahili, using lyrics from a popular Luo song sung by Ohangla maestro, Prince Indah, “Wan wachwado mana tich ” (We are simply working) to drive home his message of relentless effort.
“Wan waonge wasiwasi. Wan waonge wach. Wan wachwado mana tich (We are not worried, we have nothing to say, we are just working),” he said.
He added, “Hatuna wasiwasi. Tunachapa kazi bila break. Ni kweli ama si kweli? Tuendelee?” (We are not worried; we are working without a break. Is it not true? Should we go on?)
By Saturday evening around 7pm security had tightened at the stadium gates. Only accredited individuals were allowed in as uniformed and plainclothes police ensured no unauthorised access.
Early arrivals were temporarily ejected to make room for logistical preparations, with only media crews permitted to remain for their live broadcasts.
Outside, the crowd swelled, both those locked out and new arrivals merged into a surging tide. When the gates finally opened, they poured in, racing past overwhelmed officers who pleaded for calm to avert a potential stampede.
Within minutes, chaos gave way to a full house. The 12,000-capacity stadium was packed, save for the VIP area reserved. The turnout stunned many, including public officials and citizens alike.
“The Raila Odinga Stadium is nearly full on the eve of Madaraka Day. What you’re witnessing is the deep affection the people of Homa Bay have for the President and their appreciation for government efforts,” said Silas Jakakimba, a Sony Sugar Company board member and Suba North resident.
Others, including President Ruto’s close allies, shared similar sentiments on social media.
“The capacity is 12,000. Full as of 1:32am when I passed by and the gates were closed. Homa Bay town is bursting with people, and arrangements are underway to set up screens at nearby school grounds. I haven’t seen this level of passion since chairing the Thematic Committee for National Holidays,” said Dennis Itumbi, head of Creative Economy and Special Projects.
The celebration spirit was evident in Homa Bay’s buzzing nightlife. Popular clubs like 112 Tavern and Oxza were filled to capacity, serving as a prelude to the grand occasion.
Inside the stadium, the atmosphere remained electric through the night. By 5am as dawn broke, dramatic scenes unfolded at the gates.
Despite a heavy police presence, crowds attempted to force entry, prompting officers to deploy teargas. Stones were hurled, tempers flared, and in the scuffle, thefts occurred, including the unfortunate loss of a laptop belonging to NTV crew member George Kieru.
Rushdie Oudia, interim chairman of the Kisumu Journalists Network, urged the Office of the President, the Ministry of Interior, and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to take urgent measures to prevent such chaos in future national events.
Authorities later announced the arrest of several suspects found with stolen phones, urging anyone who lost property to report to the police.
Despite the turbulence, entertainment continued inside the stadium, building anticipation for the president’s arrival.
Attendees were treated to a spectacular air show by the Kenya Airforce, parachute displays, traditional dances and vibrant children’s performances.
As the crowds grew, additional spectators were allowed into the pitch under the watch of the National Youth Service personnel and plainclothes officers, to witness the historic occasion.
Among the international guests invited to grace the ceremony was Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar, who pledged her country’s cooperation with Kenya in development and innovation.
“Solidarity, unity and partnership matters a lot in a community’s growth,” she said.
