Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has sparked online debate after he refrained from shaking hands with senior Kenyan leaders during his formal reception at State House, Nairobi, by President William Ruto.
The visiting head of state was received with full honours by President Ruto and introduced to a high-level delegation that included Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.
After exchanging a warm handshake with President Ruto, President Museveni was ushered toward the delegation. However, as Ruto introduced him to the top officials one by one, starting with Deputy President Kindiki Kithure, followed by Mudavadi and Governor Sakaja, Museveni acknowledged each with a wave and verbal greeting but refrained from any physical contact.
The leaders then proceeded to a ceremonial podium adorned with the flags of Kenya and Uganda, where the national anthems of both countries were played. Museveni removed his signature wide-brim hat during the anthem and stood at attention alongside Ruto.
While some viewers noted the Ugandan president's gesture as respectful and dignified, others took to social media to question his decision to avoid handshakes.
Online users speculated that Museveni’s actions may have been influenced by lingering COVID-19 precautions or recent health alerts, such as the confirmed Mpox cases reported in Kenya.
@dennohdennoh1 Museveni Fails to Shake Hands With Kindiki, Mudavadi and Sakaja as Ruto Introduces Them at State House ♬ original sound - DennohDennoh
This is not the first time the long-serving Ugandan leader has drawn attention for avoiding handshakes. Museveni has, over the years, maintained a consistent personal protocol of limiting physical contact, particularly in public settings. He often raises his hand in acknowledgement, a gesture that has become characteristic of his public appearances.
At the event, Museveni was dressed in his typical style—a crisp, long-sleeved white shirt paired with blue trousers—as he joined his host in the formal State House reception.
