The swearing-in of the new president will proceed even without the presence of outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, Deputy President-elect Rigathi Gachagua has said.
This, however, will depend on the outcome of a petition that Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga is planning to file at the Supreme Court.
On Tuesday, Odinga vowed to challenge the election of Deputy President William Ruto.
He garnered 7,176,141 votes against Odinga’s 6,942,930.
Gachagua who was speaking during an interview on Kass TV said his absence will not in any way affect the transition and handover process.
Uhuru has been on record saying he will not hand over power to Ruto.
He cited the case of the US where former president Donald Trump who was defeated gave a wide berth to the swearing-in ceremony of incoming leader Joe Biden.
“What is only required during the swearing-in ceremony is the presence of the Chief Justice, it is not even that sword, that is just ceremonial,” said the outgoing Mathira MP.
President elect William Ruto and his running mate Rigathi Gachagua hold the certificate after declaration at Bomas of Kenya on August 15, 2022
Image: ANDREW KASUKU
He added:
“But we are asking him to be a gentleman.”
Gachagua also raised concern over the “continued silence by the head of the state” saying it is worrying.
He noted that while he is not under any obligation to congratulate the winner, it was only wise if he come out from his ‘hideout’ and address the nation.
“Even if he does not want to congratulate Ruto he should do the honourable and send a message of peace to Kenyans,” he said.
