President William Ruto's recent state visit to the United States was filled with many highlights, but one that would have certainly not gone unnoticed was the frequent hand-holding between President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto in Washington. 

This gesture, less common in African cultural contexts, sparked both admiration and humorous commentary back in Kenya.

Days after the President's return, this affectionate display would become a topic of humorous commentary from none other than his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua humorously recounted the hand-holding episode during the National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, eliciting laughter from the leaders and dignitaries present. 

Gachagua began by praising President Ruto's trip and speech in the US but then digressed to jest about the "pressure" it put on Kenyan husbands, himself included. 

"All Kenyans were monitoring what you were doing in the States. And there is something you were doing there that created problems for many husbands across the country. When you were walking holding the first lady's hands, it put us back here under immense pressure," said Gachagua.

He shared that his wife, Pastor Dorcas, was inspired by the President's gesture and demanded similar affection, even around their home. 

This, Gachagua humorously noted, had also affected other leaders like Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, leading to lighthearted banter about the challenge it posed for them.

"Our spouses led by mine, Pastor Dorcas, were demanding that we emulate the president and hold their hand wherever we go. Mine, and you know she is a pastor, even went beyond and demanded that I walk her to the car that even around the house I hold her hand. I was not alone, even Musalia asked me whether this holding hands had caused issues at his home. And I told him I'm witnessing even much trouble," he said triggering laughter.

Gachagua continued his playful critique by pointing out that President Ruto appeared to revert to his usual behaviour upon returning to Kenya, as he noticed the President walking ahead of the First Lady at the Safari Park.

"We had that challenge but I knew you would solve that problem for us when you come back. And this morning you did just that. As we welcomed you from your car to the hold room, you were walking fast with me chatting as Mama Rachel was trying to catch up with you as we came to this room. So the matter is sorted, that was an American thing," said Gachagua further sparking laughter.

He assured that he would emulate the President's affectionate gesture when on American soil, but return to customary practices back home.

While concluding his remarks, Gachagua playful warned that President Ruto might be summoned to the imaginary men's conference to explain the hand-holding incident.

When it was the President's time to make his address, he acknowledged the jest with a promise to "answer" the conference.

"It's true that I have been summoned by men's conference. And I will go and answer," he said further triggering a moment of humor.