A plea directed towards God to find a suitable husband for Charlene Ruto, the daughter of Kenya’s president, has stirred a wave of online reactions within the country.
Ms. Ruto was one of many people who gathered for prayer in Nairobi, the country’s capital, over the weekend under the leadership of American preacher Benny Hinn.
President William Ruto, the first lady, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and his wife, Dorcas, were also in attendance.
During the session, when the preacher invited individuals with prayer requests to come forward, the president’s daughter stepped up, seeking prayers for her perceived calling to serve young people.
The preacher offered prayers for her, and after addressing general requests, he inquired if there were any special appeals. She quietly shared her request with him before he continued praying:
“Grant her a husband who will share in fulfilling that calling with her. Lord, send that young man her way, one who will be a pillar of strength and a great supporter,” prayed Benny Hinn.
“She cannot undertake this mission alone, Lord. As she goes into the battlefield to win souls, she needs a husband soon.”
This particular prayer for a husband triggered discussions among Kenyans, with some expressing criticism, others extending marriage proposals, and some resorting to mockery.
One Kenyan, reaching out on X (formerly Twitter), wrote, “My name is Omwamba, a hustler, and I am reaching out to you after witnessing your heartfelt request for a husband during your prayer session with Pastor Benny Hinn. I was moved by your sincerity and the faith you demonstrated yesterday, and God has sent me your way.”
Despite the varied responses, there were supportive voices as well. A Kenyan remarked, “There is nothing wrong with Charlene Ruto asking Benny Hinn to pray for her to get a good husband. Marriage is sacred.”
