Gachagua: Uhuru doesn’t have to attend the swearing-in
Deputy president-elect Rigathi Gachagua suggests retiring President Uhuru Kenyatta does not have to attend President-elect William Ruto’s swearing-in.
Speaking at a TV interview, Gachagua claimed the most ‘important’ person at the swearing-in function is Chief Justice Martha Koome.
“What is required during the swearing ceremony is the presence of the Chief Justice,” he observed.
On the other hand, Gachagua claimed the ‘sword’ is of less importance as it is just a symbol of the process.
“Ruto will be sworn in as the fifth president of the Republic of Kenya even without Uhuru. The sword is of less importance and that is why we will carry on with the ceremony,” noted Gachagua.
The ‘sword’ Gachagua is referring to is the ceremonial one the retiring president hands over to his successor to signify a change of guard as the head of the army.
“We ask Uhuru to be a gentleman throughout the process of handing over power,” said Gachagua.
Gachagua’s remarks come a few days after the Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission (IEBC) chairman Wafula Chebukati declared William Ruto as the winner of the August 2022 polls, and consequently the President-elect.
Ruto has since been gazetted as president-elect even though President Kenyatta, who publicly backed Azimio presidential candidate Raila Odinga to succeed him, is yet to congratulate him.
Odinga has disputed the result and hinted at seeking redress in court.
Ruto meanwhile will be sworn in if Odinga doesnt file a case at the Supreme Court within seven days of the announcement of presidential results, or if Odinga loses the case.