Editor's Review

It is Kenya's tradition that Deputy President will speak first and in turn, welcome the President to address the nation.

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday addressed the Madaraka day celebrations before his deputy William Ruto spoke.

It is Kenya's tradition that Deputy President will speak first and in turn, welcome the President to address the nation.

That was not the case in the 59th Madaraka Day fete.

After awarding state honours to a list of Kenyans, the President went straight to address the nation.

Tellingly, Uhuru also skipped his deputy as he recognised the dignitaries present.

After the recognition, Uhuru welcomed Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio, who is the chief guest, to address Kenyans.

"Before I talk, I want to invite Sierra Leon president to make his remarks," Uhuru said.

A programme of 59th Madaraka Day celebrations showed that Ruto was not accommodated in the programme.

After the award of State investiture, the next item in the order was simply "State Address" after which the National Anthem will be played then the ceremony comes to a closure.