Ruto's Swearing-In: 5 Injured as Crowd Forces Way Into Kasarani Stadium

Thousands of Kenyans attended William Ruto's swearing-in ceremony at Kasarani Stadium on Tuesday, September 13, 2022
Thousands of Kenyans attended William Ruto's swearing-in ceremony at Kasarani Stadium on Tuesday, September 13, 2022
COURTESY

At least five people were rushed to hospital after a crowd forced its way into Kasarani Stadium ahead of President-elect William Ruto's inauguration

Security officers manning the gate were overwhelmed by the turnout and efforts to calm the charged attendees were in vain. 

The rowdy group pulled down a section of the five metres Kasarani perimeter wall and forcefully made its way into the venue past the security checkpoint.

Police officers, however, intervened and contained the situation, rescuing the injured from being trampled upon in the stampede.

The Kasarani Stadium perimeter wall was breached by anxious Kenyans attending William Ruto's swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, September 13, 2022
The Kasarani Stadium perimeter wall was breached by anxious Kenyans attending William Ruto's swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, September 13, 2022
NTV

Kenya Red Cross emergency service providers rushed the injured to a nearby hospital for first aid treatment. 

Over 10,000 officers were deployed to provide security at the 60,000-seater stadium. 

"In anticipation of being part of history, Kenyans have thronged the venue in large numbers. By 5.00 am this morning, the venue had already filled to capacity, as more people continue to troop to the venue.

"To avoid logistical challenges, this is to request the public to make alternative arrangements to view the proceedings, especially from the comfort of their homes," police spokesperson, Bruno Shioso advised in a statement released on Tuesday morning, September 13.

"We thank you for your continued cooperation," Shioso added. 

Thousands of Kenyans started travelling from all over the country on Monday night, September 12. A majority were ferried by PSVs and school buses. 

William Ruto will be sworn in as the 5th President of Kenya, succeeding President Uhuru Kenyatta who confirmed that he will attend the inauguration ceremony and hand over power as dictated by the Constitution.

The two leaders met at State House, Nairobi, on Monday, September 12 for the traditional orientation of the incoming president.

"My family and I join all Kenyans in wishing the very best to our next President William Samoei Ruto and extending to him our warmest congratulations for receiving the mandate of Kenyans to lead us as our 5th president," Uhuru congratulated his former deputy. 

Former Prime Minister and Ruto's competitor, Raila Odinga, however, declined an invitation to attend Ruto's inauguration. 

ODM leader Raila Odinga (left) converses with Deputy President William Ruto (right) during the Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi County on Sunday, December 12, 2021
ODM leader Raila Odinga (left) converses with Deputy President William Ruto (right) during the Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi County on Sunday, December 12, 2021
DPPS