Why President Ruto Spoke from His Car Instead of a Stage in Mandera

Earlier Today,  President William Ruto visited Mandera County but made an unusual decision—he addressed the crowd from the roof of his car instead of a formal stage at Moi Stadium. This was not a spontaneous choice but a tactical response to a serious security threat.

Yesterday, five local chiefs traveling to a consultative meeting to prepare for the president’s visit were kidnapped by suspected al-Shabaab militants. The abduction was seen as an attempt to intimidate leaders and deter Ruto from traveling to the region.

Despite the threat, Ruto stood firm. “I haven’t just come to Mandera; I have come with Mandera, and I am staying in Mandera,” he declared, reaffirming his commitment to the county’s security. He also assured residents that efforts were underway to rescue the abducted chiefs.