Deputy president-elect Rigathi Gachagua has said the swearing-in of the president-elect will continue even without the presence of outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta.
While speaking to Kass FM, Gachagua stated that Uhuru Kenyatta’s absence will not affect the transition and handover process in any way.
Moreover, Uhuru has been on record stating that he will not hand over power to Ruto.
Likewise, Gachagua cited the case in the US where former president Donald Trump gave a wide berth to the swearing-in ceremony of incoming leader Joe Biden.
Gachagua noted that; “What is only required during the swearing-in ceremony is the presence of the Chief Justice, it is not even that sword, that is just ceremonial.”
However, the outgoing Mathira MP added that they are asking the outgoing president to be a gentleman.
Furthermore, Gachagua expressed concern over the continued silence by president Kenyatta saying it is worrying.
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The deputy president-elect noted that while he is not under any obligation to congratulate the winner, it would be wise if he come out from his ‘hideout’ and address the nation.
“Even if he does not want to congratulate Ruto he should do the honorable and send a message of peace to Kenyans,” said Gachagua.
Nonetheless, the swearing-in will depend on the outcome of a petition that Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga is planning to file at the Supreme Court.
In addition, Raila Odinga on Tuesday, August 16 vowed to challenge the election of Deputy President William Ruto.
In the just concluded general elections, William Ruto garnered 7,176,141 votes against Raila Odinga’s 6,942,930.