Following his narrow victory in last month’s election, tens of thousands of people celebrated as William Ruto took the oath of office as Kenya’s president during a ceremony in the nation’s capital, Nairobi.
It was “a moment like no other,” Mr. Ruto said, adding that a “village boy” had won the presidency.
Raila Odinga, the losing candidate, was absent. Regarding his opponent’s triumph, he claimed to have “severe worries.”
Against Mr. Odinga’s 48.8%, Mr. Ruto received 50.5% of the vote to win the election.
Although Mr. Odinga claimed the results were rigged, the Supreme Court determined the election to be free and fair.
A copy of Kenya’s constitution and a sword were given to Mr. Ruto, the former deputy president, to signify the transfer of authority from President Uhuru Kenyatta.
At least eight people are said to have suffered injuries in a crush earlier when they crowded into the stadium to see the ceremony.
But inside the throng, there was a positive energy, with lots of cheering, the Kenyan flag being waved, and groups of people wearing the color yellow, which is associated with Mr. Ruto’s campaign.
The departing Mr. Kenyatta shook hands with Mr. Ruto, his former deputy with whom he had a falling out during their second term in government.
There were about 20 African heads of state present.
