DP vows to accept August 9 presidential race outcome as he concludes US trip

• Mar 5, 2022

DP vows to accept August 9 presidential race outcome as he concludes US trip

By Paul Munene

Kenya’s Deputy President William Ruto (pictured) concluded his United States tour with a vow to accept the outcome of the August 9th General Election.

Speaking at Mt Calvary Baptist Church, Maryland, USA, Ruto also called on Azimio la Umoja movement leader Raila Odinga to accept the outcome of the elections.

The Deputy President at the same time acknowledged the contribution of Kenyans in the diaspora to the economy of Kenya.

He said Kenyans in the diaspora deserve attention and good service.

He said should the Kenya Kwanza team form the next government, it will create proper structures to address issues affecting them.

Earlier, Ruto said he is ready to appear before the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to expound on rigging claims he made during his tour.

Speaking to a local publication through his director of communication, Emmanuel Talam, the Deputy President said he is ready to cooperate with the electoral commission to give the necessary information that will see the country experience a free and fair election in August this year.

"The DP is ready to cooperate with the IEBC to ensure that the election results are not compromised," Talam said.

Talam, however, challenged the Commission to also investigate the sentiments that were made by Murang'a Woman Representative Sabina Chege on elections rigging.

Speaking at Karson Institute of Race, Peace and Social Justice in Loyola University in Maryland, in the US, Ruto claimed there are plans among state officials to compromise the country's democracy in the August 9 general elections.

Following his statement, the IEBC chairperson Wafula Chebukati promised to investigate his statement, as part of its bid to ensure it delivers a free and fair election.

Ruto also waded in the raging debate of same sex marriages.

This was during a discussion at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies that was beamed live on YouTube.

Ruto, who was speaking with CSIS Africa Director Mvemba Phezo Dizolele, was responding to a question from a curious member of the audience who wanted to know what his stand was on the constant harassment the LGBTQ community goes through in Kenya.

The Kenyan's Second-in-Command stated that as a Christian, he follows what the bible says on the LGBTQ community. He, however, noted that he is also a public servant and obeys what the Constitution has stipulated on human rights.

In 2015, Ruto made worldwide headlines after his remarks on the LGBTQ community were seen as extreme.

The DP was speaking during a Church service where he stated that there was "no room" for homosexuality in the Kenyan society.

The remarks were made amid a visit by then serving US Secretary of State, John Kerry, who had arrived in Kenya for bilateral talks with the government.