Mwarv Reveals the Story Behind Iconic 2017 Uhuru and Ruto Campaign Photos

Kenyan photographer Mwangi Kirubi, known as Mwarv, recalled being called at short notice to photograph Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto at State House in May 2017 after the photographer initially chosen became unavailable. He brought in fellow photographer Allan Gichigi to help with the shoot, which was postponed by two days because of the presidential schedule. The photographers arrived at 6:30 a.m. on May 4 and had to finish the portraits that day to meet printing deadlines for campaign posters and manifestos. Gichigi played rhumba and songs by Miriam Makeba to put the two leaders at ease and encourage more natural expressions.