Nairobi, Kenya: Mr. William Ruto has sworn in as the fifth president of Kenya, followed by his narrow win in the election held on August 9th.

In his acceptance speech in the capital Nairobi, Mr. Ruto urged for unity and peace to focus on the country’s future. Mr. Ruto defeated his rival Mr. Raila Odinga taking 50.5 percent of the vote.

The election results announcement was delayed amid scuffles and allegations by Mr. Odinga’s campaign of vote-rigging. The Supreme Court last week rejected challenges to the official results.

Before becoming president, Mr. Ruto served as the 11th deputy president of Kenya from 2013 to 2022. He previously served in several cabinet positions such as the Minister for Home Affairs, the Minister of Agriculture and as Minister for Higher Education.

Supporters of Mr. Ruto were injured in a crash at a jam-packed sports stadium, as they fought for entry to see him give the acceptance speech. According to the National Police Service, they had tweeted that the stadium was full by 5 AM and asked citizens to stay home, but crowds continued to try to force their way inside.

Religion was a dominant theme throughout the swearing-in ceremony, with leaders from the Christian and Islamic faiths offering prayers for the new president. Bishop Mark Kariuki said that God had shown his power by uplifting Mr. Ruto, who was once a roadside chicken seller, to the presidency.

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