Nancy Odindo, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings more than three years of experience covering politics, news, and feature stories across digital and print media in Kenya.

US – Former president Barack Obama has congratulated president-elect Donald Trump after he emerged victorious in the hotly contested 2024 polls.

Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris, who conceded the race and assured him of a smooth transition.

Obama expressed disappointment in the election’s outcome, noting the deep political divides that have shaped the nation, particularly since Trump’s 2020 refusal to concede and the subsequent Capitol attack.

“Now the results are in and we want to congratulate President Trump and Senator JD Vance on their victory. This is not the outcome we had hoped for. But living in a democracy is about recognising that our point of view won’t always win out, and being willing to accept the peaceful transfer of power,” he said.

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He highlighted the nation’s ongoing challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact and economic strain from rising prices, as pressing issues that demand bipartisan cooperation.

In his statement, he underscored the need for elected officials to prioritise unity and adhere to democratic principles, emphasising that these values are essential for addressing the country’s current struggles and sustaining its democratic legacy.

“We won’t always see eye-to-eye in everything. But progress requires us to extend good faith and grace even to people with whom we deeply disagree. That is how we’ve come this far and how we will keep building a country that is more fair, just, equal, and free,” he added.

Obama commended Harris and her running mate, Minnesota governor Tim Walz, describing them as “extraordinary public servants who ran a remarkable campaign.”

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Source: TUKO.co.ke