The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, has congratulated William Ruto on being the duly elected 5th President of Kenya. This comes after the Supreme Court of Kenya confirmed Ruto’s election on Monday, September 5 in a ruling that followed a petition filed by Ruto’s main rival, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. “I’m proud of the example of civility, dedication and decorum displayed by the electoral and judicial institutions of Kenya. The commitment of all parties to Kenya’s election resolution procedures and their recognition of the Supreme Court decision is an excellent demonstration of Kenya’s love for the values enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter,” said Scotland. She added that the Supreme Court ruling on the presidential election is an example of due-process being followed and the rule of law prevailing “I celebrate President-Elect Ruto and former Prime Minister Odinga for their statesmanship and show of respect for the country’s democratic institutions,” Scotland added. Meanwhile, the African Union has also welcomed Ruto’s presidency, where the chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat also commended outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta for his “strong and impactful leadership during his tenure of office.” “The Chairperson further wishes to congratulate the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission of Kenya, and all national stakeholders, for their collective efforts and exemplary conduct in holding peaceful elections up to the final outcome of the election petition by the Supreme Court of Kenya,” the press release indicated. Kenya’s General Elections took place on August 9, 2022, and Kenya’s electoral body on August 15 declared Ruto as the winner with 7,176 141 votes, representing 50.49 per cent of the total valid votes.
