Eyebrows were raised after outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta addressed the nation but failed to congratulate or even mention his former deputy William Ruto by name only issuing a general message to winners.
President Uhuru however said it was his intention to ensure a smooth transition and that all the necessary orders required have been issued.
Earlier in the day President elect Ruto appeared to make snide remarks against President Uhuru when he said he had not spoken to him in months but would place a call to him to ensure a smooth transfer of power.
Ruto’s remark caused a hearty and prolonged laughter from a group of people who had gathered at his Karen office shortly after the Supreme Court re-affirmed his election as the 5th President of the Republic of Kenya.
He said when he agreed to support Uhuru in 2013 there was no agreement that Uhuru reciprocates saying it was his right to support a candidate of his choice – and that he had worked hard but Kenyans had made their choice.
Supporters of Ruto led by his deputy Rigathi Gachagua have criticized Uhuru for failure to congratulate Ruto over his win and have asked him to ensure that there is a smooth hand of power saying the Kenyan people had elected the next leadership.
In his address, Uhuru said all preparations for a smooth hand over of power have been made and that there should be no cause for alarm.
“The process of handing over is in progress through the Assumption of Office Committee which actually has already begun its work. It is my intention to oversee a smooth transition to the next administration. All the necessary orders to facilitate the process have already been issued,” said Uhuru
He issued a general statement thanking all those who have won asking them to lead Kenya to a better place as he criticized the Supreme Court for the decision that re-affirmed the election of Ruto.
“I want to wish well, all those who have won as they guide our country to the future. and I thank you all for the opportunity to serve,” said Uhuru.
Political observers have been left wondering how deep the resentment between the former friends who in 2013 would wear matching shirts and ties rans.
