President William Ruto's era begins as ‘sword of power’ changes hands

The presidential ceremonial sword Kenya's founding father Mzee Jomo Kenyatta received in December 12, 1963 was on Tuesday, September 13 handed over to President William Ruto by his son Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, marking the transfer of power and authority.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also handed over the Constitution to President Ruto, as Chief of Kenya Defence Forces Robert Kibochi watched on at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani, Nairobi. The document is part of the instruments of power.

The new president and his Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua were prayed for by the clergy as their spouses watched on.

Immediately after the special prayers, Uhuru watched as his reign came to an end when his navy-blue presidential standard was lowered on one pole and the yellow standard of the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces was hoisted.

This was followed by a ceremonial 21-gun salute by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), to welcome the new president.