Uhuru visits Raila after Supreme Court verdict

By , K24 Digital
On Wed, 7 Sep, 2022 11:27 | 2 mins read
Uhuru visits Raila after Supreme Court verdict
Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta poses for a photo with Raila Odinga and his family. PHOTO/Courtesy

Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta on Tuesday night paid Azimio la Umoja - One Kenya coalition leader Raila Odinga a visit at his Karen residence in Nairobi, the first reunion since the Supreme Court dismissed the outfit's presidential petition.

Uhuru, who doubles up as the Azimio coalition chairperson, was accompanied by high-ranking officials in the political outfit.

Uhuru visits Raila after Supreme Court verdict
Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta poses for a photo with Azimio leaders led by Raila Odinga. PHOTO/Courtesy

In photos that have surfaced online, the Head of State is seen having a good time with Raila's family members including his wife Ida Odinga and daughter Winnie Odinga.

Raila's Spokesperson Makau Mutua, legal advisor Paul Mwangi and Siaya Governor James Orengo were also present.

The visit came a day after Azimio suffered a defeat in Raila's petition challenging William Ruto's election as the country's fifth president.

Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta poses for a photo with Azimio leaders led by Raila Odinga. PHOTO/Courtesy
Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta poses for a photo with Azimio leaders. PHOTO/Courtesy

In a ruling delivered on Monday, a seven-judge bench of the Supreme Court led by Chief Justice Martha Koome said the Kenya Kwanza Alliance leader was validly elected.

The Azimio flag bearer said he respects the Supreme Court decision although he disagrees with it.

"We have taken note of the decision of the Supreme Court on the Presidential election held on August 9th, 2022. We have always stood for the rule of law and the constitution. In this regard, we respect the opinion of the court although we vehemently disagree with their decision today," Raila said.

The former prime minister and his running mate Martha Karua maintained that the August 9 presidential poll was not credible.

"Our lawyers proffered irrefutable evidence and the facts were on our side, unfortunately, the judges saw it otherwise. We find it incredible that the judges found against us on all nine (9) grounds and occasions resulted in unduly exaggerated language to refute our claims," he added.

"This judgement is by no means the end of our movement, in fact, it inspires us to redouble our efforts to transform this country into a prosperous democracy where each and every Kenyan can find their full belonging."

Uhuru promises peaceful transition

Uhuru, on his part, promised a smooth transition process.

"It's my intention to oversee a smooth transition to the next administration and all the necessary orders to facilitate this process have already been issued," Uhuru stated on Monday evening.