Ruto mourns Norway’s King Harald V, hails his service
Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed his condolences following the death of Norway’s King Harald V at age 89. Ruto praised the late monarch for his dedication to duty, democracy, and international cooperation throughout his 35-year reign.
Why it matters
The statement highlights the diplomatic ties between Kenya and Norway and acknowledges the global impact of the Norwegian monarchy.
President William Ruto/PCS President William Ruto has mourned the death of Norway’s King Harald V, describing him as an exceptional monarch whose life was defined by duty and devotion to his people.
King Harald V, Europe’s oldest reigning monarch, died aged 89 on Friday, August 28, 2026, after being hospitalised for treatment of haemolytic anaemia and a subsequent bacterial bloodstream infection.
He died peacefully at Oslo University Hospital, according to the Norwegian Royal Palace.
In a condolence message on Saturday, Ruto extended his sympathies to Queen Sonja, the Royal Family, the Norwegian Government and the people of Norway, saying Kenya shared in their grief.
“Kenya mourns with Norway the passing of an exceptional monarch whose life was defined by duty, dignity, humility and unwavering devotion to his people,” Ruto said.
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