President Uhuru promises a smooth transition, makes no mention of Ruto in speech

President Uhuru Kenyatta has reiterated his commitment to ensure the process of handing over power is flawless.

In a video issued by State House on Monday, September 5, the President said he will adhere to the rule of law in line with the vows he took while assuming office in 2017. 

“When I was sworn in as your president, I made a pledge to the country, to uphold the rule of law and the decisions made by the Judiciary on all matters pertaining to tour governance,” Uhuru said. 

“Today, the Supreme Court made a decision on the presidential dispute upholding the results announced by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. In keeping to the pledge made to uphold the rule of law, I commit to executing the orders of this court to the letter.”

The Supreme Court upheld the election of President Uhuru's deputy William Ruto as president-elect. Uhuru had openly backed the candidature of Ruto's rival Raila Odinga of Azimio La Umoja coalition. 

In a move that stirred debate on social media, neither did President Uhuru congratulate president-elect William Ruto nor mention him by name in the duration of his speech. 

Ruto is expected to be sworn in as Kenya’s fifth president on Tuesday, September 13, 2022. 

Here's the full speech: