12 Embassies, High Commissions in Nairobi congratulate President-elect William Ruto

President-elect William Ruto [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Twelve embassies and High Commissions in Nairobi and the East African Community (EAC) have congratulated President-elect William Ruto after the Supreme Court upheld his win.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, September 6, the American, British, German and Canada embassies among others, lauded Kenya's independent institutions for conducting a free and fair General Election.

"We commend the people of Kenya and its independent institutions for an election conducted in the spirit of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law," the embassies noted.

"From a peaceful campaign and transparent tallying to formal dispute mechanisms being followed and their verdicts being respected, Kenya continues to show the world how to be a modern, democratic nation."

The nations commended Odinga's contribution to the country's democratic evolution.

EAC on the other hand expressed optimism that Ruto's leadership would collaborate with the EAC towards the realisation of the region's agenda.

"We congratulate the fifth President of the Republic of Kenya, William Ruto and look forward to his leadership in advancing the EAC integration agenda," jumuiya tweeted.

The EAC agenda guides the free movement of goods, people, labour, services and capital from one partner State to another as well as the rights of establishment and residence without restrictions.

President Uhuru Kenyatta's tenure at the helm of EAC ended in May 2022, having assumed the role in February 2021. Burundi's Evariste Ndayishimiye took over the chairmanship.

Five EAC states, excluding South Sudan ratified the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) under President Kenyatta's leadership.