‘It’s Better to Be Married’ President Ruto Gives Larry Madowo Relationship Advice During Charlene’s Koito 

President William Ruto sparked laughter and reactions online after playfully offering relationship advice to CNN international correspondent Larry Madowo during his daughter Charlene Ruto’s traditional engagement ceremony on Saturday, August 8, 2026 .

The light-hearted moment occurred at the Koito ak Chaik ceremony held at the President’s Intona Heritage Farm in Kilgoris, where family, friends, and dignitaries had gathered to celebrate Charlene’s betrothal to Tanzanian tech entrepreneur Isaya Yunge.

Addressing Madowo, who was among the invited guests, President Ruto quipped, “It is good to be single, but it is better to be married, and it is best to have children,” prompting laughter from those in attendance. The President has previously used similar occasions to encourage young people to embrace marriage and family life .

Madowo, a prominent journalist who has been a vocal critic of the Ruto administration, attended the ceremony in support of his close friend Yunge. His presence at the high-profile family event sparked debate on social media, with some questioning his attendance given his critical coverage of the government .

Unfazed by the backlash, Madowo took to social media with a defiant post: “Cancel Larry Madowo,” before sharing a celebratory message for the couple . He wrote, “Harusi tunayooo! Hongera sana 👏🏾 Proud of my little brother Isaya for getting his bride Charlene. Welcome to the family” .

The colourful traditional ceremony brought together senior political leaders from across Kenya’s political spectrum, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, ODM leader Dr Oburu Oginga, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, and various Cabinet Secretaries.