Kenya’s president-elect William Ruto has on Tuesday been sworn in as president in a ceremony in the capital Nairobi at a pomp-filled ceremony.
Ruto was the former deputy president, and he won the presidential election last month with 50.5% of the votes.
He was sworn in as the fifth president of Kenya by Martha Koome, chief justice of Kenya, at a ceremony held in Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani Stadium.
Speaking at the event packed with tens of thousand Kenyans, Ruto hailed the moment as one “like no other” and expressed his gratitude that he a “village boy” had become president.
The 55-year-old was handed a copy of Kenya’s constitution and a sword to represent the transfer of power from President Uhuru Kenyatta.
“I William Samoei Ruto, in full realisation of the high calling I assume as president of Kenya, do swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to the public of Kenya, that I will obey, preserve and protect this constitution of Kenya,” he said.
“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 added, referring to the fact that he grew up in rural Kenya.
He also had conciliatory words for Mr Odinga, and all his opponents.
“Their supporters will be my constituents. I will work with all Kenyans irrespective of who they voted for,” Mr Ruto said.
