Tens of thousands of people cheered as William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya’s president at a ceremony in the capital Nairobi following his narrow election win last month. Mr Ruto hailed it as “a moment like no other”, adding that a “village boy” had become president. Defeated candidate Raila Odinga did not attend. He said he had “serious concerns” about his opponent’s victory. In a statement, Mr Odinga said he had received a call from Mr Ruto inviting him to the inauguration, but that he would not attend as he was abroad and he did not believe the election was free and fair. This is despite the fact that the Supreme Court handed down a unanimous judgment, confirming Mr Ruto’s victory and dismissing Mr Odinga’s concerns that the election was marred by widespread irregularities. Religion was a persistent theme throughout the swearing in ceremony, with leaders from the Christian and Islamic faiths offering prayers for the new president. About 20 heads of state from across Africa attended the event. There was also a handshake between the outgoing Mr Kenyatta and Mr Ruto, his former deputy with whom he fell out during their second term in office. New Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said the Ruto administration marked “freedom” for Kenya, and the days when people were targeted because of their association with him “are over”. Earlier, at least eight people were reported to have been injured in a crush as they jostled to enter the stadium to witness the ceremony.
SOURCE: DEUTSCHE WELLE