AP

From humble past, William Ruto sworn in as Kenya’s president

Sep 12, 2022, 12:25 PM | Updated: Sep 13, 2022, 8:46 am

Supporters gather in the stands and wave national flags as they await the inauguration of Kenya's n...

Supporters gather in the stands and wave national flags as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)

(AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)


              Supporters gather in the stands and wave national flags as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman after people broke through barriers causing a stampede, as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta inspects the guard of honour at a swearing-in ceremony for new president William Ruto, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto arrives to be sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands, one of them waving a national flag, as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People climb over barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, accompanied by Kenya's Supreme Court Chief Justice Martha Koome, is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured man who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People are crushed in a stampede as security forces attempt to push them back, as they force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, poses after shaking hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People carry an injured man as security forces look on, after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, seen behind fountain fireworks, shakes hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              A woman lies on the floor after being crushed in a stampede when security forces kept others back, after they forced their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto holds up a ceremonial sword as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands and wave national flags as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman after people broke through barriers causing a stampede, as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta inspects the guard of honour at a swearing-in ceremony for new president William Ruto, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto arrives to be sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands, one of them waving a national flag, as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People climb over barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, accompanied by Kenya's Supreme Court Chief Justice Martha Koome, is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured man who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People are crushed in a stampede as security forces attempt to push them back, as they force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, poses after shaking hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People carry an injured man as security forces look on, after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, seen behind fountain fireworks, shakes hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              A woman lies on the floor after being crushed in a stampede when security forces kept others back, after they forced their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto holds up a ceremonial sword as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta waves to the crowd during the swearing-in ceremony for Kenya's new President William Ruto, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta inspects the guard of honour at a swearing-in ceremony for new Kenya's President William Ruto, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, center, holds the hand of Supreme Court Chief Justice Martha Koome, left, accompanied by his wife Rachel Ruto, right, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta inspects the guard of honour at a swearing-in ceremony for new president William Ruto, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta waves to the people during the sworn in ceremony of new Kenya's President William Ruto, at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday Sept.13, 2022. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Soldiers stand guard as outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta inspects his last guard of honour during the sworn in ceremony of new Kenya's President William Ruto, at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta inspects his last guard of honour during the sworn in ceremony of new Kenya's President William Ruto, at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday Sept.13, 2022. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Kenya's Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua holds a bible as he is being sworn in next to his wife Dorcas Rigatoni, right, at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi Kenya, Tuesday Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Kenya's new President William Ruto, right, receives signed certificates from Chief Justice of Supreme Court, Martha Koome, after being sworn in as fifth president of Republic of Kenya, at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, shakes hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, poses after shaking hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              The President elect William Ruto, middle, with his wife Rachel Ruto is being sworn as fifth president of Republic of Kenya at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto, who is succeeding Uhuru Kenyatta, got a win in August and also got another boost after the Supreme Court upheld his election terming it valid. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, seen behind fountain fireworks, shakes hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands and wave national flags as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands, one of them waving a national flag, as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Security forces beat a man after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede when they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People climb over barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, shakes hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People carry an injured man as security forces look on, after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured man who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People are crushed in a stampede as security forces attempt to push them back, as they force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              A woman lies on the floor after being crushed in a stampede when security forces kept others back, after they forced their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, seen behind fountain fireworks, holds up a ceremonial sword as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, shakes hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, poses after shaking hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              The President elect William Ruto, middle, with his wife Rachel Ruto is being sworn as fifth president of Republic of Kenya at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto, who is succeeding Uhuru Kenyatta, got a win in August and also got another boost after the Supreme Court upheld his election terming it valid. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, seen behind fountain fireworks, shakes hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands and wave national flags as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands, one of them waving a national flag, as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Security forces beat a man after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede when they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People climb over barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, right, shakes hands with outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, left, as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People carry an injured man as security forces look on, after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured man who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People are crushed in a stampede as security forces attempt to push them back, as they force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              A woman lies on the floor after being crushed in a stampede when security forces kept others back, after they forced their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's new president William Ruto, seen behind fountain fireworks, holds up a ceremonial sword as he is sworn in to office at a ceremony held at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya's president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election and after the Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge to the official results by losing candidate Raila Odinga. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands and wave national flags as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands, one of them waving a national flag, as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Security forces beat a man after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede when they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People climb over barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People carry an injured man as security forces look on, after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured man who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People are crushed in a stampede as security forces attempt to push them back, as they force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              A woman lies on the floor after being crushed in a stampede when security forces kept others back, after they forced their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's President-Elect William Ruto, left, jokes with Deputy President-Elect Rigathi Gachagua, right, as he addresses the media at his official residence in Nairobi, Kenya Monday, Sept. 5, 2022. Kenya's Supreme Court on Monday unanimously rejected challenges to the official results of the presidential election and upheld William Ruto's narrow win in East Africa's most stable democracy. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands and wave national flags as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands, one of them waving a national flag, as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People look down from a roof as security forces gather below, after they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium causing a stampede, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman after people broke through barriers causing a stampede, as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Security forces beat a man after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Police respond with a water cannon when people break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Security forces beat people after they broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede when they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People climb over barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People carry an injured man as security forces look on, after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured man who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People are crushed in a stampede as security forces attempt to push them back, as they force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              A woman lies on the floor after being crushed in a stampede when security forces kept others back, after they forced their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Kenya's President-Elect William Ruto, left, jokes with Deputy President-Elect Rigathi Gachagua, right, as he addresses the media at his official residence in Nairobi, Kenya Monday, Sept. 5, 2022. Kenya's Supreme Court on Monday unanimously rejected challenges to the official results of the presidential election and upheld William Ruto's narrow win in East Africa's most stable democracy. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands and wave national flags as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Sayyid Abdul Azim)
            
              Supporters gather in the stands, one of them waving a national flag, as they await the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto due to take place later today, at Kasarani stadium in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. A number of people were crushed and injured as Kenyans on Tuesday forced their way into the stadium. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People look down from a roof as security forces gather below, after they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium causing a stampede, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman after people broke through barriers causing a stampede, as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Security forces beat a man after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Police respond with a water cannon when people break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Security forces beat people after they broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede when they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People climb over barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People carry an injured man as security forces look on, after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured man who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People are crushed in a stampede as security forces attempt to push them back, as they force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              A woman lies on the floor after being crushed in a stampede when security forces kept others back, after they forced their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People look down from a roof as security forces gather below, after they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium causing a stampede, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman after people broke through barriers causing a stampede, as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium, where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Security forces beat a man after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Police respond with a water cannon when people break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Security forces beat people after they broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured woman who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede when they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat the injured after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People climb over barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People carry an injured man as security forces look on, after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              Medics treat an injured man who was beaten by police after people broke through barriers causing a stampede as they tried to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People break through barriers causing a stampede as they try to force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People are crushed in a stampede as security forces attempt to push them back, as they force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              A woman lies on the floor after being crushed in a stampede when security forces kept others back, after they forced their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              A woman lies on the floor after being crushed in a stampede when security forces kept others back, after they forced their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People are crushed in a stampede as security forces attempt to push them back, as they force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              A crowd looks on as a woman tries to get up after people were crushed in a stampede when security forces attempted to push them back, as they forced their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)
            
              People are crushed in a stampede as security forces attempt to push them back, as they force their way into Kasarani stadium where the inauguration of Kenya's new president William Ruto is due to take place later today, in Nairobi, Kenya Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. (AP Photo/Brian Inganga)

NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — William Ruto was sworn in as Kenya’s president on Tuesday after narrowly winning the Aug. 9 election in East Africa’s most stable democracy, and quickly signaled that his leadership will be a strongly Christian one.

The Supreme Court last week rejected a challenge by losing candidate and longtime opposition figure Raila Odinga of the official results, completing a markedly peaceful election in a country with a history of troubled ones.

The 55-year-old Ruto had been the deputy to outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta but had a bitter split that left the two not speaking for months at a time. On Tuesday, the audience cheered as the two shook hands, and again as Kenyatta handed over the instruments of power.

Ruto, who had dropped to his knees in tears and prayer when the court upheld his win, knelt on the stage minutes after his swearing-in during an extended sermon.

“A chicken seller to a president,” intoned the pastor, highlighting Ruto’s humble youth. “A village boy has become the president of Kenya,” Ruto said in his speech.

In his first tweet as president, the evangelical Christian quoted Psalms: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” His speech praised both the church and Islamic leadership, and he vowed that “we will enhance our partnership, build on our collaboration and enhance our support to them.”

The event began with some chaos. Scores of people were crushed and injured as they forced their way into the packed stadium. Medic Peter Muiruri said a fence fell as people pushed it and about 60 were injured, though the number may rise.

People tried to dodge baton-wielding security forces. Some failed. “I was beaten by the police after trying to get inside,” said a witness, Benson Kimutai.

Ruto takes power in a country heavily burdened by debt that will challenge his efforts to fulfill sweeping campaign promises made to Kenya’s poor, whom he has described as getting by on “stubborn hope.” In his speech, he acknowledged that “clearly, we are living beyond our means.”

He promised cheaper fertilizer as food prices rise and more affordable credit. He also vowed more money for the judiciary, financial independence for the national police from the presidency and efforts to fight a drought in Kenya’s north that brings the threat of famine.

Ruto also asked Kenyatta to continue “chairing discussions” on the regional crises in neighboring Ethiopia, where the government is fighting Tigray forces, and in eastern Congo, where tensions exist with Rwanda. Kenyatta has accepted, the new president said.

“Will come as a big relief to diplomats who worried Nairobi would back out of the two initiatives,” tweeted Murithi Mutiga, Africa director with the International Crisis Group.

But Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed didn’t shake hands with other African leaders afterward, even rejecting his Kenyan Foreign Ministry escort, and went straight to his car.

With the transition, Kenya’s presidency moves from one leader indicted by the International Criminal Court to another. Both Kenyatta and Ruto were indicted over their roles in deadly 2007 post-election violence, but the cases were later closed amid allegations of witness intimidation.

The August election was calm in a country with a history of political violence. Chaos erupted only in the final minutes when the electoral commission publicly split and prominent Odinga supporters tried to physically stop the declaration of Ruto as the winner.

Ruto’s campaign portrayed him as a “hustler” with a humble background of going barefoot and selling chickens by the roadside, a counterpoint to the political dynasties represented by Kenyatta and Odinga. His presidential flag features a wheelbarrow, the symbol of his campaign.

But Ruto received powerful political mentoring as a young man from former President Daniel arap Moi, who oversaw a one-party state for years before Kenyans successfully pushed for multiparty elections.

Ruto now speaks of democracy and has vowed there will be no retaliation against dissenting voices. “I will work with all Kenyans irrespective of who they voted for,” he said in his speech.

But in a warning sign for media, local broadcasters that were accused by Ruto of bias in the past were restricted in their coverage of the inauguration, forced to use a feed from a South African broadcaster in which Kenya’s national broadcaster has a share.

The losing candidate, 77-year-old Odinga, is setting himself up to be a prominent opposition voice once again after former rival Kenyatta backed him in the election. In a statement on Monday, Odinga said he would skip the inauguration and later “announce next steps as we seek to deepen and strengthen our democracy.”

Though Odinga also asserted that “the outcome of the election remains indeterminate,” a spokesperson told The Associated Press it was “highly unlikely” he would seek to declare himself the “people’s president” as he did after losing the 2017 election.

___

Moses Ndungu contributed to this report.

Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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