Thursday, March 28, 2024

Buhari congratulates Ruto, President-elect of Kenya

President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated the President-elect of Kenya, William Ruto, on his victory in the General Elections on August 9, 2022.

The President, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, also commended the people of Kenya for the peaceful and transparent outcome of the elections, which once again demonstrates that the democratic process, values and principles remain the best way for the people to select their leaders and hold them accountable.

President Buhari said Nigeria valued Kenya as a strategic partner in the fight against terrorism and violence extremism, buoyed by a long history of friendship, economic and trade ties, and effective collaboration through international organisations such as the African Union, the United Nations and the Commonwealth.

“While wishing Deputy President Ruto a successful inauguration and tenure in office, the President looks forward to more fruitful and robust engagements between the two countries on shared priorities such as enhancing peace and security on the continent, democracy, and greater economic prosperity and social development.

“The Nigerian leader also salutes President Uhuru Kenyatta for his statesmanship and exemplary leadership to the people of Kenya in the past nine years and the profound legacies of his administration on infrastructure, education, healthcare reforms and tourism as well as strong influence and support on regional security,” Adesina stated.

Deputy President William Ruto narrowly beat his rival, Raila Odinga, taking 50.4% of the vote.

The announcement of his victory was delayed amid scuffles and allegations of vote-rigging by members of Odinga’s campaign.

Four of the seven members of the electoral commission refused to endorse the announcement, saying the results were “opaque”.

“We cannot take ownership of the result that is going to be announced because of the opaque nature of this last phase of the general election,” said Juliana Cherera, the vice-chairperson of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.

“We are going to give a comprehensive statement… and again we urge Kenyans to keep calm.

“There is an open door that people can go to court and the rule of law will prevail,” she said.

Odinga’s party agent earlier alleged that there were “irregularities” and “mismanagement” in the election.

This was the first time Ruto, 55, had run for president.

He has served as deputy president for 10 years, but fell out with President Uhuru Kenyatta, who backed Odinga to succeed him.

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