William Ruto: Let election process conclude in peace

He asked politicians to let the remaining steps of the electoral process concluded peacefully.

"We have heard what the citizens are saying, they want a peaceful conclusion to the electoral process. It is our responsibility as leaders to allow all institutions discharging their obligations to conclude this process be given a chance to do their work as per the law," said Ruto.

He promised to work with all governors to ensure promises made during campaigns are achieved.

He said having been the chairperson of the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council, he understood challenges faced by counties, and will ensure the shareable revenue is released on time to ensure governors deliver on their mandate.

No exemptions

He promised to work with all counties to build capacity to generate own resources and complement what they get from the National Treasury and that he had already held discussions with the Kenya Revenue Authority on ways in which revenue can be raised.

"There will be no exemptions on anybody on paying taxes with the rule of law being the benchmark for all of us. We will ensure citizens working hard will access opportunities without the necessities of having any connections with the powers that be," said Ruto.

He applauded Kenyans for electing seven female governors Fatuma Achani (Kwale), Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga), Cecily Mbarire (Embu), Kawira Mwangaza (Meru), Wavinya Ndeti (Machakos), Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay) and Susan Kihika (Nakuru).

"In a very special way let me congratulate the seven women elected as governors. Kenyans have done our country proud by having these great ladies at the helm of their respective county leadership for the next five years," said Dr Ruto.

He termed Sakaja's election in Nairobi a miracle and promised to work with him to ensure the capital city has the best in terms of governance and improvement of infrastructure.

Ruto promised to work with Nairobi County leadership to establish Nairobi Rivers Commission.

He pledged to support Sakaja in making Nairobi a world-class destination.

"I would like to call on Members of the County Assembly and county employees to join hands with Sakaja in making this county an example worth emulating," he said.

Sakaja becomes the fourth city governor after Evans Kidero, Mike Sonko and Anne Kananu.