‘This Is State House, Dress Like It’ – Ruto Tells Leaders

President William Ruto, during the signing of the lease Agreement between Zaria and Kenya Railway Development of Indoor Arena at State House, Nairobi on April 10, 2026/PCS

President William Ruto on Thursday lightened the mood at State House with a playful jab at the dress code of some leaders attending an official function.

Speaking during the signing of the Agreement for the Modern Arena and Entertainment District in Nairobi, the Head of State drew laughter after questioning whether some guests had anticipated the formal nature of the event.

“I was looking at the people who came to this occasion, including the governor of Nairobi, and I was asking myself if they are here by design or if they were way late,” Ruto said, prompting laughter.

“The way they are dressed, they don’t look like they knew they were coming to State House,” he added.

Maintaining a light and humorous tone, the President went further to suggest tighter enforcement of dress expectations at official functions.

“I think next time I would ask the people at the gate not to allow people dressing like that, especially when they’re coming for a serious function like this,” he said.

Among those present was Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, who, like several attendees, opted for a more relaxed look compared to the traditional formal attire associated with State House events.

Sakaja wore a long-sleeved patterned shirt without a tie, paired with trousers, reflecting a smart casual style rather than full business attire.

Several other guests were similarly dressed in open-collar shirts and lighter fabrics, with noticeably fewer suits and ties than is typical for high-level engagements at State House.

The relaxed dress code contrasted with the formal setting, where official functions are often marked by strict adherence to business or ceremonial attire.

Despite the remarks, the atmosphere remained upbeat, with the President’s comments adding a lighter moment to the proceedings.

The event itself marked a key step in plans to develop a modern arena and entertainment district in Nairobi, a project aimed at positioning the city as a regional hub for sports, culture and entertainment.

Ruto’s remarks highlighted the evolving nature of professional dress while subtly reinforcing the importance of decorum at official State House functions.