Raila Odinga to miss William Ruto's swearing-in

Raila Odinga says he is unavailable to attend William Ruto's inauguration. [File, Standard]

Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya presidential candidate in the 2022 election Raila Odinga says he will not attend President-elect William Ruto's inauguration tomorrow, Monday, September 13, at the Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani.

In a statement, Raila says he received an invitation.

"This evening, I received a letter and a telephone call from H.E Dr. William Ruto inviting me to his inauguration set for tomorrow, September 13, 2022. However, I will not be available for the inauguration because I am out of the country and I also have other serious concerns," said Raila.

Raila has pointed a finger at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) over alleged unfairness in conducting the polls.

"First, I believe that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, the body in charge of our elections, did not conduct a free and fair election," he said.

The former Prime Minister also took a swipe at the Supreme Court.

"Secondly, I believe that the ruling of the Supreme Court was not based on the facts and the law, even though we accepted it. For these reasons, the outcome of the election remains indeterminate. Once I return to the country, I will, jointly with Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Coalition Party leaders, announce our next steps as we seek to deepen and strengthen our democracy," said Raila.

Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday evening held a meeting with President-elect William Ruto, before giving his farewell address to the nation.

Uhuru, who is also the chairperson of Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Coalition, supported Raila Odinga in the August 9, 2022 presidential election.