A group of legislators aligned with opposition leader Raila Odinga's Azimio la Umoja movement have expressed strong disapproval of the remarks made by US Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, regarding the 2022 presidential election. The legislators have accused Ambassador Whitman of overlooking the fundamental flaws in Kenya's electoral system and labeled her comments as insensitive and prejudicial.
Leading the critique is Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, who voiced his concerns about Ambassador Whitman's comments during a press conference. Senator Odinga emphasized that the ongoing bipartisan negotiations between Azimio and Kenya Kwanza aim to address critical issues such as electoral justice, the Finance Act 2023, and corruption. He called for foreign partners to refrain from getting involved in domestic political conversations.
Senator Moses Kajwang of Homa Bay echoed these sentiments, stating that Ambassador Whitman's comments on Kenya's democracy could hinder the progress of the political discussions between the two factions. Kajwang highlighted the importance of keeping foreign powers out of internal political matters.
The legislators were particularly critical of Ambassador Whitman's praise for the 2022 presidential election during the ongoing 8th Devolution Conference. Ambassador Whitman had lauded Kenya's efforts in conducting credible, transparent, and verifiable elections, describing them as the freest, fairest, and most credible in Kenyan history.
Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga found fault with this assessment, especially given the current disagreements between Azimio and Kenya Kwanza. He expressed his disappointment in Ambassador Whitman's portrayal of democracy in Kenya while fundamental rights, such as the right to protest and assemble, are being restricted.
Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua also called for sensitivity and maturity from foreign partners, urging them to avoid making comments that could erode trust and exacerbate political tensions in Kenya.
Rarieda Member of Parliament, Otiende Amollo, took a more critical stance, accusing Ambassador Whitman of prioritizing economic interests over democratic principles. He asserted that the envoy's comments reflected a focus on business rather than genuine support for democracy.
The legislators also questioned President William Ruto's decision to applaud Ambassador Whitman's remarks at the Devolution Conference. They raised concerns about the timing and implications of such an endorsement, given the ongoing negotiations between the two political factions.
As the controversy unfolds, Ambassador Whitman's remarks have ignited a debate on the role of foreign powers in Kenya's political landscape and the balance between democratic values and economic interests. The legislators' reactions highlight the sensitivity of the issue and its potential impact on domestic political dynamics.