On Monday, August 15, IEBC chairperson Wafula Chebukati declared William Ruto and Rigathi Gachagua as the President and the Deputy President-elect respectively.
Chebukati announced that Ruto won the elections by garnering 7,176,141 votes, representing 50.59 percent of valid votes cast.
Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition party presidential candidate Raila Odinga was second with 6,942,930 votes (48 percent), according to Chebukati’s Form 34C.
Unlike in previous such elections where the outgoing Heads of State congratulate their successors, outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta is yet to publicly congratulate President-elect William Ruto.
But speaking on Wednesday, August 17, Gachagua noted that while the President is not under any obligation to congratulate the winner, it was only wise if he come out from his ‘hideout’ and address the nation.
“Even if he does not want to congratulate (President-elect William) Ruto he should do the honorable and send a message of peace to Kenyans,” Gachagua said.
Gachagua, who was speaking during an interview on Kass TV on Wednesday, August 17, further said their swearing-in will proceed even without the presence of outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Gachagua said Uhuru’s absence will not in any way affect the transition and handover process.
“What is only required during the swearing-in ceremony is the presence of the Chief Justice, it is not even that sword, that is just ceremonial,” outgoing Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua said.
