There was drama at the refurbished Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi as the nation commemorated the day she became a republic on Wednesday.
President Uhuru Kenyatta appeared in his full Commander In Chief military regalia before embarking on a salutation spree.
The Head of State began by saluting all the major security officers at the main stand, and then the first Lady Margaret Kenyatta before moving to his deputy William Ruto.
The most dramatic one was when he insisted on a salute when he got to opposition leader Raila Odinga, refusing Raila's hand stretched for a handshake.
The two are currently considered the best of friends after their March 9 truce.
The heavily popularized reconciliation laid to rest their political rivalry as was witnessed when they faced off the in the previous 2017 presidential race.
Amid the laughter from the present leaders and the rest of the guests, he proceeded to Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
The President then moved to Amani National Congress counterpart and Bungoma Senator Moses Wetangula, reports the Citizen Digital.
According to protocol, the Head of State is required to greet all the notable leaders and persons in the dais before taking his seat.