We are not enemies we are Kenyans – Ruto extends olive branch to rivals
By Wycliffe Nyamasege, September 5, 2022President-elect William Ruto on Monday, September 5, affirmed that the Kenya Kwanza administration will not sideline anyone as he prepares to assume office next week.
Speaking moments after his victory was upheld by the Supreme Court, Ruto extended an olive branch to his competitors, inviting them to work together to move Kenya forward.
“I extend a hand of brotherhood to all my competitors and to all their supporters. We are not enemies, we are Kenyans. Let us unite to make Kenya a nation where everyone shall be proud to call home,” Ruto said at a press conference in Karen, Nairobi.
Ruto ran against Raila Odinga of the Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya coalition, George Wajackoyah (Roots party) and David Mwaure (Agano party).
Reacting to Uhuru’s endorsement of Raila’s State House bid, Ruto stated that no one will be victimised for expressing their views or the position they took during the electioneering period.
“My administration will recognise in full the now established tradition of honouring our leaders who have served this nation and shall not in any manner interfere with their privileges and their entitlement in retirement. They are revered elders of our nation who deserve respect at all times,” he added.
The Supreme Court dismissed Raila’s petition challenging Ruto’s victory on Monday.
In a judgement read by Chief Justice Martha Koome on Monday, a seven-judge bench unanimously ruled that the presidential election was conducted in line with the country’s constitution.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman Wafula Chebukati had, on August 15, 2022, declared that Ruto, the Kenya Kwanza flagbearer, won the election with 7,176, 141 votes, which is 50.49% of the total votes cast against Raila’s 6, 942, 930 votes (48.85%).
Ruto to be sworn in on Tuesday
Ruto will be sworn in on Tuesday next week in line with the provisions of the Kenyan constitution.
In his address on Monday, Ruto said he hopes the transition process will be smooth despite his differences with the outgoing Head of State.
“I haven’t talked to Uhuru Kenyatta in months but shortly I will call him so that we can have a conversation on the process of transition. I know he worked hard in his own way but the people of Kenya have made a decision,” Ruto stated.