President William Ruto has congratulated Andy Burnham following his appointment as the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, expressing Kenya’s readiness to strengthen relations with London under the incoming administration.
In a message shared on his official X account on Monday, the President conveyed his best wishes to Burnham on behalf of Kenyans, describing his elevation to the country’s top political office as the result of years of dedicated public service.
“Your appointment is the culmination of a distinguished record of public service and a steadfast commitment to practical, people-centred leadership, values that align closely with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda,” Ruto said.
The Head of State noted that Kenya is keen to work closely with the new British government to deepen cooperation in key sectors, including trade, investment, innovation, environmental sustainability and security.
He said the longstanding ties between the two countries provide a strong foundation for expanding bilateral partnerships.
“Together, we will strengthen the enduring friendship between our two nations and create greater opportunities and shared prosperity for the citizens of our two nations,” he added.
Burnham officially assumed office on Monday, becoming Britain’s seventh prime minister in a decade.
He succeeds Keir Starmer, who stepped down in June. The former Greater Manchester mayor and Makerfield Member of Parliament secured the Labour Party leadership last week before King Charles III formally invited him to form a government at Buckingham Palace.
During his first speech outside 10 Downing Street, Burnham promised to steer the country towards political stability, outlining plans for wide-ranging economic and social reforms that he described as a fresh start for Britain.
His appointment signals a new chapter in the United Kingdom’s leadership, with Kenya among the countries expressing optimism that the transition will strengthen existing diplomatic ties and open the door to greater cooperation in areas of shared interest.
