Ruto declared winner of Kenya presidential race

The head of Kenya’s election body on Monday declared deputy president, William Ruto, the winner of the country’s close-fought presidential election, despite several commissioners rejecting the results.

Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, chairman, Wafula Chebukati, said Ruto had won almost 7.18 million votes (50.49 percent) against 6.94 million (48.85 percent) for his rival Raila Odinga in the August 9 vote.

Ruto, in his acceptance speech, vowed to work with “all leaders”, attempting to ease tensions after the outcome sparked a split in the election commission and fears of violence.

“There is no room for vengeance. I am acutely aware that our country is at a stage where we need all hands on deck,” Ruto added.