Religious leaders have urged President-elect William Ruto to show respect for outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta as well as Raila Odinga, the Azimio One Kenya presidential candidate in the August elections.

Speaking separately, AIC Kenya Presiding Bishop Emeritus Silas Yego and the National Alliance of Registered Churches in Kenya (ARCK) warned Dr Ruto against settling scores based on past disagreements with the two, warning that doing so would disrupt his focus once he takes office.

Instead, they urged him to recognize the duo for their contributions to Kenya – Mr Kenyatta as President for the past decade and Mr Odinga for his efforts to make Kenya more democratic.

In addition to congratulating Dr. Ruto on his victory, ARCK praised Mr. Odinga for accepting the court’s decision and allowing the country to move forward.

“We as the church want to salute Mr Odinga for bravely welcoming the court’s ruling and ask the President-elect to respect him and outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta in his retirement,” said Rev Samuel Welimo, ARCK chairperson.

He urged Dr. Ruto to embrace everyone, regardless of political party affiliation, race, or religion, and to lead without bias or marginalization of communities.

“This is the time to preach, spread and show love to everyone in this nation since we are a God-fearing county,” Rev Welimo said.

The ARCK leaders spoke in Bungoma as AIC Kenya Bishop Yego warned Dr Ruto against seeking vengeance for the past.