CNN international correspondent Larry Madowo has pushed back against critics on social media following his surprise appearance at the traditional engagement ceremony for Charlene Ruto, daughter of President William Ruto.
The ceremony took place on Saturday, August 8, at the president’s Intonna Heritage Farm in Kilgoris, Narok County. High-profile guests gathered to witness the betrothal of Charlene to Tanzanian tech entrepreneur Isaya Yunge. Madowo was spotted mingling and sharing light moments with President Ruto, First Lady Rachel Ruto, and other attendees.
Harusi tunayooo! Hongera sana 👏🏾
Proud of my little brother Isaya for getting his bride Charlene. Welcome to the family 🇹🇿 ❤️ 🇰🇪 pic.twitter.com/7yibCVsXX4
— Larry Madowo (@LarryMadowo) August 9, 2026
His appearance sparked significant backlash on X (formerly Twitter), where critics accused the journalist of hypocritically fraternizing with government leadership after extensively covering state excesses and political unrest. Critics expressed disappointment, with some claiming they felt betrayed by his presence at the event.
Seeming to shrug off the online outrage, Madowo addressed his detractors directly on social media with a short response: “Cancel Larry Madowo.”
Madowo attended the private ceremony as a personal guest of the groom, Isaya Yunge, with whom he shares a long-standing friendship.
Cancel Larry Madowo
— Larry Madowo (@LarryMadowo) August 9, 2026
