President elect Ruto to Raila: Forget the handshake stories
President-elect William Ruto has dismissed the possibility of brokering a post-election agreement to share political power with Azimio presidential candidate Raila Odinga.
He spoke on Monday, in his first address to the nation after his election victory was upheld by the Supreme Court.
“I believe in the rule of law,” said Ruto.
“I do not believe in the handshake stories. I believe in an accountable government held to account by a responsible opposition, that is how Kenya is going to move forward.”
The President-elect also announced he will reach out to Odinga and other presidential candidates via a phone call and have a conversation on how to unite the country.
“My administration will fully recognize the now established commission of honouring all the leaders who have served this nation and shall not in any manner interfere with their privileges and their entitlements in retirement, they are revered elders of our nation who deserve respect all the time.”
Odinga and outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta entered into a political handshake in the aftermath of the August 2017 polls.
Ruto has consistently criticized the deal which appeared to drive a wedge between him and the retiring President.
President Kenyatta then elected to support Raila Odinga for the presidency at the expense of Ruto.
President-elect Ruto has also described Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commision (IEBC) chairman Wafula Chebukati as a hero on the August 9, polls.
“The hero of the election is one Wafula Chebukati and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.”
According to Ruto, Chebukati stood his ground to deliver a credible election in results that were upheld by the Supreme Court.