US President Donald Trump greets President Uhuru Kenyatta during the G7 Summit in Italy. [Photo/the-star.co.ke]
The White House has sent President Uhuru Kenyatta a congratulatory message following his victory in the just concluded general election.
In a statement dated August 14, 2017, the White House, however, expressed concern over the violence that hit parts of the country after the declaration of the presidential results, Friday night.
"We are troubled by reports that some demonstrations have turned violent, and call on all Kenyans to reject violence and resolve disputes in accordance with the Constitution," the White House said.
The press secretary welcomed peace and national unity calls by President Kenyatta.
"This historic election is an important step forward, and we urge all Kenyans to unite in peace to continue building their country," said the White House.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman Wafula Chebukati on Friday announced that Kenyatta won a second term by 8,203,290 votes against his rival Raila Odinga who got 6,762,224.
Immediately after the announcement, protests hit opposition strongholds – Kisumu, parts of Nairobi, Siaya and Homa Bay.
According to the police, 10 people have lost their lives during the protests.
On Saturday, a 9-year-old girl was among people shot dead as protests intensified in Mathare and Kibera.
Yesterday, the President asked opposition leaders to seek legal redress and urged the police not to use excessive force and protect peaceful; demonstrators.
Nasa leaders have maintained they will not go to court to challenge the outcome of the polls.
Odinga is today expected to make a “major announcement” on the results.