His Excellency William Ruto has been sworn in as Kenya’s fifth President.
The Tuesday swearing-in and inauguration kicked off around mid-day with the entry of President Uhuru Kenyatta aboard the Commander in Chief ceremonial vehicle, after which inspected a full parade mounted by the Kenya Defence Forces under Lt-Col Gilbert Kinanga’s command.
The swearing-in process was led by the Judiciary under Chief Justice Martha Koome and Judiciary registrar Anne Amadi.
Dr Ruto also received the highest award in the country – Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart.
His deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, was also sworn in shortly after him.
Ruto who won the election with 50.5% of the vote against his rival Raila Odinga’s 48.8%, called the inauguration “a moment like no other”.
“Standing here today is testimony that there is God in heaven. I want to thank God because a village boy has become the president of Kenya,” he told a cheering crowd.
He promised to work with all Kenyans irrespective of who they voted for.
“Our immediate focus is lowering the cost of living by empowering food producers, creating jobs for our young people, creating a favourable environment for enterprise and empowering independent institutions.”
He said Kenya will continue playing its key role in international diplomacy at the bilateral and multilateral levels, appreciating that “we are host to major international agencies, including the United Nations”.
“Kenya will continue to be a dedicated partner to peace, security and prosperity in the East African region. We look forward to deepening our integration,” said Ruto in his inauguration speech.
National and County leaders from across the country joined thousands of jubilant Kenyans at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani in the capital Nairobi for Tuesday’s inauguration ceremony.
The over 60,000 Kenyans from across the country started arriving at the Stadium as early as 3am ahead of the swearing-in ceremony that was attended by several visiting Heads of State and Government, high level delegations and a wide array of dignitaries.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3: 5-6 pic.twitter.com/XiJJ86wFe1
— State House Kenya (@StateHouseKenya) September 13, 2022
Humbled, inspired and ready to work for the people of Kenya. Thank you for this honour. pic.twitter.com/f8bu97BJiy
— State House Kenya (@StateHouseKenya) September 13, 2022