World leaders have sent congratulatory messages to Kenya’s president-elect, William Ruto following his declaration as the winner of the country’s August 9 election.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson, Wafula Chebukati, announced Ruto as the winner on Monday afternoon after an hours-long delay.
Soon after the announcement, some leaders took to social media to send their congratulatory messages to Ruto.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed wrote: “My congratulations William Ruto on your election as the President of the Republic of Kenya. I wish you best of luck in your endeavors ahead and we look forward to working closely with you on common bilateral and regional interests.”
Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa wrote: “Congratulations to William Ruto on his election as the next President of Kenya. I have no doubt he will serve his country, his people and our continent with distinction.”
Somalia’s presidency also shared a message from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, saying he “warmly congratulates President-Elect William Samoei Ruto of the Republic of Kenya, following his election victory. The president looks forward to working with William Ruto towards stronger bilateral relations and closer cooperation between Somalia and Kenya.”
Former Somalia President Mohamed Farmaajo also sent a message saying, “I wish to offer my most sincere congratulations to President-Elect of Kenya H.E. William Ruto and the people of Kenyan following the successful conclusion of the elections. You truly ran an enriching, overpowering campaign and may God help you fulfill your vision for your country.”
The Speaker of Ugandan Parliament Anita Among sent her congratulatory messages to William Ruto noting that she looks forward to working with him as a member of the East African Community.
“I Congratulate H.E Dr. William Ruto upon election as the 5th President of Kenya. I also congratulate the people of Kenya for successfully exercising their constitutional right to elect Leaders. As Members of the East African Community, we look forward to working with you,” she posted.
IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati on Monday after some fracas at the Bomas of Kenya tallying centre declared Ruto as the president-elect.
Ruto garnered 7,176,141 votes representing 50.49 percent of the total vote, while his rival, Raila Odinga got 6,942,930, which was 48.85 percent of the vote.
