By Sarah Omondi
Kenya Kwanza Presidential candidate William Ruto has been announced the President elect after garnering 7.1 million votes.
The United Democratic Alliance leader garnered 7, 176, 141 votes trailed by Azimio la Umoja competitor Raila Odinga who got 6, 942, 930 votes representing 50.49 percent and 48.85 percent respectively.
The results were announced by Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Chair Wafula Chebukati at Bomas of Kenya.
Roots Party candidate George Wajackoya and Agano Party counterpart Waihiga Mwaure came third and fourth with 61, 969 votes and 31, 987 votes respectively.
“I do hereby declare Ruto dully elected as President,” Mr Chebukati said.
He hailed his staff for what he termed as braving insults and harassment from people he did not mention saying a number had been arrested for no reason and profiled.
“The results reflect the will of Kenyans and are available in the public portal,” the official noted.
Shortly after he was issued with a certificate, Dr Ruto said the outcome of the elections was a clear indication that sovereign power belonged to the people.
He hailed millions of Kenyans who turned up to vote for him and waited patiently until the announcement was made.
“We have raised the bar.The election was much about issues and not tribal affiliations. I want to laud Kenyans who refused to be boxed into tribal cacoon,” Dr Ruto said.
He promised to work with all elected leaders for Kenya to progress to the next level.
