William Ruto is Kenya's fifth President.
The Kenya Kwanza Alliance leader, who has served as President Uhuru Kenyatta's deputy for 10 years, was sworn into office in a colourful ceremony held at the Kasarani stadium on Tuesday, September 13, 2022.
The oath of office was administered by the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Anne Amadi before Kenya's Chief Justice Martha Koome, in line with the provisions of the constitution.
Also Read:
Ruto's deputy Rigathi Gachagua took the oath of office at the same function.
The event was witnessed by President Kenyatta and at least 20 heads of state across Africa.
Shortly after the swearing-in ceremony, Uhuru handed over the instruments of power to the new Head of State.
The instruments of power include the Kenyan constitution and the presidential ceremonial sword.
Ruto wins presidency
Ruto, 55, defeated long-serving opposition leader Raila Odinga and three others in the polls conducted on August 9, 2022.
Raila challenged Ruto's election at the Supreme Court but the case was dismissed on September 5, paving way for Ruto's swearing-in.
Reacting to the judgement Raila said: "We have taken note of the decision of the Supreme Court on the Presidential election held on August 9th, 2022. We have always stood for the rule of law and the constitution. In this regard, we respect the opinion of the court although we vehemently disagree with their decision today."
The former prime minister maintained that the August 9 presidential poll was not credible.
"Our lawyers proffered irrefutable evidence and the facts were on our side, unfortunately, the judges saw it otherwise. We find it incredible that the judges found against us on all nine (9) grounds and occasions resulted in unduly exaggerated language to refute our claims," he added.
"This judgement is by no means the end of our movement, in fact, it inspires us to redouble our efforts to transform this country into a prosperous democracy where each and every Kenyan can find their full belonging."
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Chairman Wafula Chebukati had, on August 15, 2022, declared that Ruto 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%). By Wycliffe Nyamasege, K24
