Martha Karua, Francis Atwoli react to Supreme Court judgment upholding William Rutos win

NARC Kenya party leader Martha Karua. [File, Standard]

Raila Odinga's running mate in the August 9, 2022 presidential election, Martha Karua, says she respects Supreme Court's upholding of Ruto's win but doesn't agree with it.

In our earlier story, we reported that she had conceded defeat but we have since learnt she didn't. In a tweet, she clarifies there is a difference between accepting a court decision and concerning defeat.

Karua posted on Twitter shortly after the Supreme Court upheld William Ruto's victory on August 9.

"The [apex] court has spoken. I respect [its decision], but disagree with the findings," she said.

Raila Odinga has expressed similar sentiments. In a statement, he said he respected the court's verdict but disagreed with it.

According to Raila, his lawyers preferred irrefutable evidence but he found it incredible that the court found against all his grounds and resorted to "Udully exaggerated language to refute our claims."

Karua's Twitter remarks echo sentiments she made at Tigania East in Meru County last weekend.

"We will observe the apex court's ruling regardless of whether the judgement will go in our favour or not," said Karua.

IEBC chairperson Wafula Chebukati on August 15, 2022 declared Ruto the winner of the presidential race.

Ruto got 7.18 million of the votes (50.49 per cent) against Odinga's 6.94 million (48.85 per cent).

The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, a staunch supporter of Raila Odinga, also conceded defeat on Monday, September 5.

"During COTU-K Executive Board meeting on August 17, we resolved that immediately after the Supreme Court judgement, we must thank and congratulate the victor. Consequently, we congratulate President William Ruto. We appeal to workers and Kenyans, in general, to remain peaceful," he said on Twitter.

The incoming first lady, Racheal Ruto has also shared her congratulatory message to her spouse, by throwing in some Bible verses.

"Congratulations Bill my love. God has done it. I am proud of you! May He give you the grace & wisdom to lead Kenya into greatness! You were born & destined for this! Heb 10:23 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm for God can be trusted to keep His promise," Rachel Ruto said.

Kirinyaga Governor aspirant Wangui Ngirici also congratulated the outgoing Deputy President, urging Kenyans to move on from the politicking season.

"Congratulations President Elect Dr. William Ruto. Tusonge mbele [let us move on]," Ngirici tweeted.