The National Alliance of Registered Churches in Kenya has congratulated William Ruto's presidential victory after the Supreme Court quashed the petition challenging his August 9 win.
The clergy at the same time hailed Azimio One Kenya presidential candidate Raila Odinga for accepting the results and letting the country move forward.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday in Bungoma town, the members led by their chairperson Reverend Samuel Welimo said the President-elect has made history by being the first deputy president to succeed his President through an election.
He said the church prayed for the nation and that leaders were chosen by God, adding that God had chosen Ruto as president.
Rev Welimo praised Kenyans for staying calm and upholding peace even in the Azimio One Kenya strongholds that were perceived to be violence hotspots.
"We are happy that everyone has resumed their businesses and normalcy, and as a country we have every reason to be grateful," he said.
He lauded the Judiciary for the solomonic wisdom in the ruling.
"We as a church want to salute Raila for bravely welcoming the court’s ruling and ask Ruto to respect him and outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta in his retirement," he said.
He urged the President-elect to embrace everyone despite their political party affiliation, race or religion for the betterment and development of the nation.
“For Ruto, the church prayed and is still praying for you, the President-elect, that God who has elevated you to the position of the Father of this nation Kenya, may guide you and give you wisdom and knowledge as you assume office,” Rev Welimo said.
He asked Ruto to lead without marginalisation and instead include everyone from every part of the nation in his government.
“This is the time to preach, spread and apply love to everyone in this Nation since we are a God fearing county,” he added.
Rev Welimo said the church is however planning to hold a thanksgiving day for the peace that has reigned during the just concluded election.
“We are trusting God that peace will continue to prevail in our country,” he said.
-Edited by SKanyara
