The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a statement commending Kenyans for their conduct during the electioneering period and for having peaceful polls.

The Inspector General of Police Hilary Mutyambai issued the statement on behalf of the force on Monday after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries chairperson Wafula Chebukati declared Deputy President William Ruto the winner of the Tuesday presidential elections.

“The National Police Service (NPS) congratulates Kenyans on their exercise of their constitutional right to vote, which they did by turning up in their numbers to elect their leaders,” Mutyambai said.

Mutyambai urged Kenyans to continue observing law and order and maintain peace and calm even after the declaration.

“We also thank the people of Kenya for having maintained calm and peace and generally observed law and order since the election day to this day. Kenyans are requested to keep the peace and to continue observing law and order even after today's declaration of the presidential election results,” the IG said.

The IG advised Kenyans to remain united because elections are seasonal, but Kenya is for eternity.

“Elections are seasonal, while Kenya must endure for eternity. They are not meant to divide or tear us apart. We must remain together, for Kenya is greater than any one of us. In the words of our National Anthem, may we dwell in unity, peace and liberty,” he added.