UK Congratulates President Uhuru Following His Inauguration

The UK has joined the US in congratulating President Uhuru after he took oath of office for his final term on Tuesday.

The President and Deputy Prsident William Ruto were sworn in on Tuesday at Kasarani Stadium by the Registrar of Judiciary Anne Amadi and in the presence of Chief Justice David Maraga.

In a message, Minister for Africa Rory Stewart said the installation of President Uhuru presented an opportunity for the country to move on after an extended electioneering period.

Stewart was present during the fete and later held discussions with President Kenyatta after the ceremony. He delivered a message of congratulations on behalf of UK Prime Minister Theresa May and invited Uhuru for the Commonwealth Summit to be held in London next year, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said in a statement.

“Today marks the moment where Kenya can move forward after a prolonged, divisive, election period in a new spirit of reconciliation,” Stewart said.

“I hope that all Kenyans will recognise the need now for national dialogue, and healing.”

Stewart's attendance at Uhuru's swearing in was his first official visit to country since he assumed office as joint Minister of State for the Department for International Development and Minister of State for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in June.

“The UK has extensive and historic links with Kenya, through our business links, our development programmes, and our Diasporas. This has been an opportunity to reaffirm our partnership and hear more about the ways that our two countries can work together,” he added.