He could not hide his joy after casting his ballot at Kosachei Primary School in Turbo constituency.
Ruto said the election would usher in a new era for the country.
"It has been very good that after so many months of campaigning and selling our manifesto and agenda, the D-Day is finally here,” he said.
Ruto, who was accompanied by his wife Rachel, said he would accept the outcome of the election.
“It is upon all of us to respect the choice of Kenyans and I look forward to a victorious day,” he said.
The Deputy President arrived at his polling station a few minutes before the polling stations were opened. Polling stations opened at 6am.
Ruto said he was at the polling station early because he did not want to inconvenience other voters.
He expressed optimism that the voting exercise would be peaceful with minimal incidents.
"Our prayer before voting was about having a peaceful election. I am also delighted that this historic election will usher in a new era for the country. I want to urge for a peaceful process," he said.
It was Ruto’s first attempt to contest in the presidential race after supporting President Uhuru Kenyatta in the 2013 and 2017 elections.
Ruto was running against Azimio presidential candidate Raila Odinga. The Deputy President rallied behind Raila in the 2007 elections.
Ruto’s running mate Rigathi Gachagua said he was pleased with the exercise.
"I'm also pleased with the peaceful situation so far. I want to appeal to everyone to be peaceful and to come out in large numbers to define the destiny of this great country,” Rigathi said.
He cast his vote at Sagana Primary School polling station in Nyeri county at around 7:25am
Gachagua ran into a little hitch after the Kiems kit temporarily failed to read his fingerprint.
He wiped his fingers and the device finally validated his identity after which he was allowed to proceed to vote.
“IEBC is very prepared and in cases where a voter cannot be identified biometrically, the situation is handled seamlessly. I’m certain that the will of the people will prevail,” he said.
ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi cast his ballot in Mululu, Sabatia, and urged Kenyans to vote.
“I have exercised my democratic right to vote. You should too. 'When the time is right I the Lord will make it happen,” he said, quoting Isaiah 60:22 in the Bible.
He said voting was smooth with minimal hitches.
“Where there is need for assistance, officials are available to help. I am confident if this is the process being conducted throughout the country, then we will have a peaceful election,” he said.
Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetang’ula voted at Namakhele Primary School in Bungoma and expressed confidence that Kenya Kwanza will emerge victorious.
“Victory is ours. For us who shall win, we shall be in government and for those who shall lose, they should be loyal members of the Opposition. Not loyal to the government but to the republic of Kenya,” he added.
Edited by A.N
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