The Head of State said this, the Head of State did that. How often do you read this in the news? Did you know it is a superfluous reference in English journalism? As a pronoun, it is useless.
Take a look at recent uses.
Daily Nation
“MPs from the region have pledged to raise the concerns with the Head of State and are hoping to get explanations …“
“[…] “the Head of State described the former Prime Minister […] as ‘a bold and wise leader’ …”
“[…] the parents and school managers want the Head of State to assure Kenyans that there will be no disruptions …”
First, “The Head of State has appointed top former ODM party officials…”
Second, “‘I want to tell you that I will not leave my sister Aisha Jumwa out of my government […]’, the Head of State said.”
Citizen Digital
First, “The Head of State will begin his tour in Migori County …”
Second, “While still in Siaya, the Head of State will also launch the Siaya rice mill project …”
“After jetting back to the country, the Head of State defended his travel expenditure, saying the private jet was cheaper than Kenya’s national courier – Kenya Airways (KQ).”
After saying that President Ruto was “set to hold a grand reception and breakfast for the Olympic champions at Eldoret State Lodge on Thursday morning”, the paper added that “The Head of State will then lead the athletes and other dignitaries for a grand entry to Sports Club for inauguration of the Eldoret City.”
Never mind what grand reception and grand entry to a sports club actually mean.
The Star
“The Head of State said populist decisions is what has put Kenya in the economic state it is currently in.”
First, “The Head of State said he has also approved the recruitment of additional Cadets and Private officers … “
Second, “The Head of State noted that the NYS recruits will play an integral role …”
First, “[…] the Head of State hosted the Kenya National Music Festival finalists at the Eldoret State Lodge before crossing over to Nandi and Kakamega.”
Second, “The Head of State witnessed the swearing-in of Attorney General Dorcas Oduor and EAC Cabinet Secretary Beatrice Askul.”
In each of the above examples, “the head of state” is a subservient pronoun, a carryover from the bygone era of Sauti ya Kenya and the long defunct Kenya Times newspaper. ‘
Both were state mouthpieces, especially during President Daniel arap Moi’s 24-year rule. In the era of Moi Baba wa Taifa, reporters and anchors would outdo each other in pouring reverence to the big man at the house on the hill.
This title, as a pronoun, has no value in today’s era of free press and stellar journalism. “President Ruto said,” or “the President said”, are crisp, elegant, and sufficient.
