Enthusiastic Ruto followers break Kasarani stadium gate to attend the inauguration
A scuffle was witnessed at the International Sports Center Kasarani as hundreds of Kenyans forced their way into the arena where President-elect Dr William Ruto will be sworn in.
Nairobi News has established that a number of people were seriously injured during the stampede as others tried to jump over the fence in order to enter the stadium.
It forced first aid providers to assist those who were injured as the police tried to stop those jumping into the stadium from accessing it.
Images seen by Nairobi News show that one of the several gates leading to the stadium was broken down by those who were trying to gain forceful access to the stadium.
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The Kasarani Stadium can only accommodate a total of 60,000 people who are supposed to be seated by 8 am.
However, by 6 am, the stadium where the people are expected to sit was already full and more people could not be accommodated.
Bruno Isohi Shioso, the spokesperson for the National Police Service has today, September 13, 2022, advised Kenyan citizens to seek out alternative venues to watch the inauguration.
In a statement, Mr Shioso said, “In anticipation of being part of history, Kenyans have thronged to the Moi International Sports Complex, Kasarani (Heroes Stadium), in large numbers.
As by 5.00 am this morning, the venue had already filled to capacity, as more people continue to troop to the venue.”
Adding, “To avoid logistical challenges, this is to request the public to make alternative arrangements to view the proceedings, especially from the comfort of their homes.”
Also read: Raila Odinga: Why I’ll not attend William Ruto’s inauguration
Dr Ruto is today (Tuesday, September 13, 2022) expected to be officially sworn in as the Head of State a week after the Supreme Court of Kenya upheld his win saying that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) upheld his win.
This comes just hours after Azimio presidential candidate Raila Odinga said that he will not attend Dr Ruto’s inauguration.
In a statement by his secretariat, Mr Odinga said he is outside the country and he will not be available adding he had serious concerns
According to Mr Odinga, he had received a phone call and invitation to attend the ceremony from Dr Ruto.
On the evening of Monday, September 12, 2022, Interior Principal Secretary Dr Karanja Kibicho said the Assumption of Office of the President was satisfied with the preparations and was ready to host the swearing-in.
“We have had our last meeting to tick boxes. We are satisfied that we are ready for tomorrow (today). We are only now waiting for the rehearsal for entertainment,” said Dr Kibicho.
Kibicho reiterated that more than 20 Heads of State had confirmed their attendance and some 2,500 VIPs would grace today’s occasion.
He said that although the official programme should begin at 10.30 am, the facility would be opened to the public by 4 am.
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