How Ruto, Kenyan leaders reacted to Trump's win
President William Ruto.
What you need to know:
- Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and a host of MPs also wished the US President-elect well.
- On her part, Ms Waiguru said although Kamala Harris lost, she inspired many women across the globe.
President William Ruto and a host of Kenyan leaders on Wednesday congratulated Donald Trump on his election as the 47th President of the United States, sparking a wave of reactions both locally and internationally.
In a post on X, Dr Ruto said Mr Trump’s victory was “a testament to the firm resolve of the American people to repose confidence in your visionary, bold and innovative leadership.”
“As you embark on this phase of your journey of leadership, Kenya stands ready to further enhance our cooperation on matters of mutual interest including trade, investment, technology & innovation, peace and security, and sustainable development,” President Ruto said.
“Kenya values its longstanding partnership with the United States spanning over 60 years grounded in our shared values of democracy, development and mutual respect. We look forward to deepening our collaboration under your leadership as we work together to address global challenges, promote peace and security and foster inclusive economic growth for the benefit of our peoples”.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and a host of MPs also wished the US President-elect well.
Mr Gachagua praised Trump’s resilience, calling his re-election "one of the greatest political comebacks of our generation."
“Congratulations President Donald Trump, for one of the greatest political come-backs of our generation. Your victory is clear proof that resilience and a never-say-die attitude will always TRUMP obstacles on the path to your destiny. God Bless You. God Bless America,” Gachagua tweeted.
Mr Musyoka drew comparisons between the electoral process in the US and in Kenya.
“I extend my congratulations to President-Elect @realDonaldTrump on your election as 47th President of the United States of America. Americans have placed their trust in your ideas and leadership, as evidenced by the outcomes of the electoral college and popular vote. Over I believe Kenya, and in particular the @IEBCKenya, can learn from the United States about how to conduct a free, fair, and credible election," Musyoka stated.
On her part, Ms Waiguru said although Kamala Harris lost, she inspired many women across the globe.
“Congratulations President @realDonaldTrump on your election as the 47th President of the United States. I wish you success as you lead the nation forward. To Vice President @KamalaHarris , you ran an impressive campaign and fought the good fight. Your strength and resilience inspire women worldwide — you’ve made history and continue to blaze trails for future generations. Wishing America unity, progress, and all the best in the years ahead,” Waiguru said.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro shared his belief in Republican policies as beneficial to Africa and the Global South, attributing economic improvement to Trump’s leadership.
“Congratulations President Donald Trump, the 45th & 47th. Republican policies have always been better for Africa & the Global South. The Global Economy will definitely be better with imminent monetary easing under Trump. Hongera USA. We are African and Africa is our Business,” Nyoro tweeted.
Oscar Sudi, the Kapseret MP, also took to social media to congratulate Trump on his victory.
However, his message was accompanied by a pointed remark aimed at his political opponents, which seemed to suggest that Trump’s triumph was a reminder of the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
“Congratulations, President Donald Trump, on your resounding victory. Mtu wa mawaya kama mimi who prefers actions over words, not just grandiose speeches filled with empty rhetoric,” tweeted Oscar Sudi.
Other leaders, including former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, Former Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, also sent their congratulatory messages to the US President-elect.
Meanwhile, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino used the occasion to express confidence in his own electoral prospects in 2027.
"This is how I will beat my unworthy opponent in 2027," Mr Owino tweeted.
