King Charles facing most challenging trip of his reign - analysis by Cameron Walker
Reuters
King Charles and Queen Camilla have received a grand Ceremonial Welcome from President Ruto and the First Lady at the start of their State Visit to Kenya.
The red carpet was, quite literally, rolled out alongside a 21-gun salute, military bands and the British National Anthem - a successful and well-rehearsed opening act.
But beyond the barriers of Kenya's State House, descendants of tribal leaders killed or tortured by colonial British rulers demand a full apology from King Charles for past atrocities.
They also demand further reparations from the British Government, who paid out nearly £20 million in 2013 to more than 5,000 elderly Kenyans who suffered abuse during the Mau Mau uprising in the 1950s.
Reuters
The King is expected to "deepen his understanding of the wrongs suffered" by Kenyans and "acknowledge the more painful aspects" of Britain and Kenya's shared history, but is unlikely to offer a full apology.
The British government maintains the position that modern-day administrations are not legally liable for the actions of the past, so a formal apology from the Head of State could leave them open to further court battles.
Reuters
This stance, however, is unlikely to satisfy the passionate campaigners and their supporters.
Palace and government officials will be hoping the spotlight stays firmly on celebrating the "warm relationship" between Britain and Kenya and strengthening diplomatic relations in an increasingly competitive world.
Reuters
Reuters
It is understood even President Ruto of Kenya wishes to leave the past behind and look towards the future "to boost mutual prosperity".
The State Visit to Kenya could be King Charles's most challenging foreign trip of his reign so far, but he is an experienced statesman who is used to navigating the choppy waters of Britain's colonial past.