Deputy President-elect Rigathi Gachagua has raised concern over the “continued silence by the head of the state” saying it is worrying.
Speaking during an interview on Kass TV, the outgoing Mathira MP stated that, while he is under no obligation to congratulate the winner, he should come out of 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.
Gachagua also noted that the swearing-in of the new president will take place even if outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta is not present.
This, however, will be contingent on the outcome of a petition that Raila Odinga, the leader of Azimio la Umoja, intends to file with the Supreme Court.
Odinga vowed to challenge Deputy President William Ruto’s election on Tuesday.
He garnered 7,176,141 votes against Odinga’s 6,942,930.
Gachagua said Uhuru’s absence will not in any way affect the transition and handover process.
He cited the example of the United States, where former President Donald Trump, who was defeated, overlooked the swearing-in ceremony of incoming President 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,” he added.
