Ruto's mother: Time to work for Kenyans

Villagers followed Ruto's address to the nation at Mama Sarah's home after the court ruling. Pupils from the neighbouring Samoei Model and Kamagut Primary schools also spent the entire afternoon at the home.

"I thank the people of Kenya for voting for Ruto because our prayers alone would not have helped him win the elections," Mama Sarah said. "I am asking my son to reciprocate the support given to him by Kenyans to work tirelessly for them."

Mama Sarah recalled how the family was asked to allow Ruto serve as MP of Eldoret North. "There was a time a group of elders approached me to release him to serve as a leader and I obliged. We gave our Ruto to the community as their leader.

"Ruto was someone who never frequented town to look for jobs in town and I didn't understand why they looked for him. I think it is because he was destined to be a political leader that is why he didn't go to Eldoret town to look for jobs like his peers."

She described his ascendancy to power as a miracle. "My only role during the election period was prayer. I had no other business, and I am happy it was answered. The people of Kenya elected and as a family, we ask you not to let them down."

She added, "On Sunday night, I slept as normal because I had prayed for him and I knew his win would be upheld. Do not discriminate against those who did not elect you."

Ruto's elder sister Elizabeth Samoei thanked Kenyans for voting for him. She said the president-elect was 'intelligent and a go-getter'. "He was different in character. He was never angry and forgave even when he was punished."

The younger sister Janet Biwott said: "We thank God because we are now the country's first family."

Ruto's elder brother Samuel Samoei said he would pray for Ruto in his quest to implement the 'bottom-up' economic model. He remembered Ruto as an obedient child who respected his elders.

"Ruto persevered from a young age, and he still has the same spirit. I have never been to State House and his win may enable me visit him there soon."