While the tradition has continued under subsequent administrations, President William Ruto introduced a unique element in his official portrait. In public offices across Kenya, you have most likely seen the prominent display of the presidentโs portrait.[โฆ]CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLEโถ
These portraits serve as a symbol of respect and allegiance to the head of state, adorning walls in government buildings, schools, and even some private enterprises.
However, despite their prevalence there is no legal requirement mandating such displays.
This longstanding tradition was highlighted by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2016, when he clarified that businesses and offices are not compelled to showcase the presidentโs image.
In light of this, the question arises: why do so many institutions continue to uphold this custom, and how does the official portrait of the current president, William Ruto, differ from those of his predecessors?
The tradition of displaying presidential portraits dates back to Kenya’s independence. It has become common to see the head of stateโs image adorning walls in offices and institutions, both public and private.
The practice symbolises the authority of the head of state and is seen as a gesture of loyalty.
It is almost expected, especially in public spaces, where it is assumed to demonstrate recognition of the presidentโs leadership.
However, in 2016, President Uhuru Kenyatta said that there was no legal obligation requiring businesses or offices to display the presidentโs portrait.
While the tradition has continued under subsequent administrations, President William Ruto introduced a unique element in his official portrait.
For the first time in Kenyaโs history, the presidential portrait features the national flag alongside the presidentโs image.
Despite there being no legal requirement, many Kenyans continue to uphold the practice of displaying the president’s portrait. Several factors contribute to this:
Political allegiance: In some cases, displaying the president’s portrait is seen as a gesture of political alignment, particularly in government institutions and private enterprises that may have links to the ruling party.
Cultural norms: For many, the portrait is not only a symbol of authority but also part of Kenyaโs cultural heritage. Its absence may be seen as unusual or even disrespectful in certain contexts.
3. Public perception: While businesses are not legally required to display the president’s portrait, many choose to do so to avoid any perception of dissent or disloyalty, especially in politically sensitive environments.
4. Historical continuity: Displaying the head of state’s image has become a deeply entrenched tradition, one that has spanned multiple generations of leadership in Kenya. For many, it is simply the normโฆCLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES>>>ย
