Kenya’s former permanent representative to the UN has criticized the U.S. government for its comments on Kenya’s integrity in public service. The U.S. Embassy urged Kenyan MPs to reject Cabinet nominees with integrity issues, following protests that led President William Ruto to sack his entire team of ministers.
The U.S. Embassy’s statement emphasized the importance of integrity as Kenya begins vetting new Cabinet nominees. “As Kenyans look ahead to the vetting of Cabinet nominees beginning today, we recognize the importance of integrity in public service and the National Assembly’s vital role in upholding Chapter Six of Kenya’s Constitution,” the Embassy said.
Martin Kimani, Kenya’s former representative to the UN, saw this as an unnecessary lecture from a country facing its own governance challenges. “Since my former @ForeignOfficeKE colleagues are restrained by their diplomatic sensibilities, I will respond to this grating lecture from the U.S. experiencing political violence, plummeting trust in its electoral institutions, and an uncertain transfer of power,” Kimani wrote on X. “Lecture less, renew U.S. democracy, and deliver a ceasefire in Gaza.”
Kenya’s government chose not to respond officially to the U.S. comments. Dr. Korir Sing’oei, Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, stated, “The statement expresses a view that aligns with that of many Kenyans and is consistent with our Constitution. We take no serious issue with it.”
The Cabinet’s dissolution followed intense pressure from youth protesters, initially spurred by a controversial finance bill. The U.S. had initially avoided commenting on the protests but later cautioned Nairobi on the use of excessive force and the importance of respecting civil liberties.
The new team of Cabinet nominees includes some opposition politicians, with several facing allegations of misappropriating funds. Despite this, Washington’s position has remained complex, balancing criticism of civil rights violations with a desire to maintain good relations with Kenya. This diplomatic balancing act follows Kenya’s designation as a major non-NATO ally, which could grant Nairobi access to some U.S. military technology.
Ruto’s government has been under scrutiny, both domestically and internationally. Western diplomats have walked a tricky path, supporting civil liberties while fostering ties with Ruto’s administration. Ruto’s visit to Washington in May, the first by an African leader since 2008, underscored these evolving dynamics.
The protests in Kenya began as a response to economic hardships and calls for better governance. Youth groups were at the forefront, demanding accountability and transparency. The government’s decision to overhaul the Cabinet was seen as a response to these pressures, aiming to restore public trust.
However, the inclusion of controversial figures in the new Cabinet has raised questions. Critics argue that without significant changes, the issues of corruption and mismanagement will persist. The international community, particularly the U.S., remains vigilant, urging Kenya to uphold its commitment to integrity.
The situation highlights the challenges of governance in a rapidly changing global landscape. As Kenya navigates these pressures, the need for transparency and accountability becomes ever more critical. The government’s response to both domestic demands and international scrutiny will shape its future trajectory.
Source: Ghana Web
