The United States Government says it will not recognize Kenya's opposition Leader, Raila Odinga as the President of Kenya after he declared himself the People's president this week. The US Department of State made this known in a statement issued on Friday. The statement said the US is gravely concerned by Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga’s self-“inauguration” on Tuesday as Kenya’s ‘People’s President’.
“We reject actions that undermine Kenya’s Constitution and the rule of law. Uhuru Kenyatta was elected as President of the Republic of Kenya on October 26, 2017, in a poll that was upheld by Kenya’s Supreme Court. Grievances must be resolved through appropriate legal mechanisms.”
The statement commended security agencies for refraining from the use of excessive force and urged them to sustain that posture. It also appealed that any possible arrests and prosecutions should be in accordance with the laws.
“We urge all Kenyans to reject violence and hatred. Protesters have a right to assemble peacefully, to express their views freely, and to hold opinions without interference. We are also deeply concerned by the Government’s action to shut down, intimidate, and restrict the media. Freedom of expression, including for members of the media, is essential to democracy and is enshrined in Kenya’s Constitution.
We again urge Kenyan leaders and citizens to begin a national conversation to build cohesion and address long-standing issues. The U. S. continues to support efforts by religious, business, and civil society leaders to begin this conversation in the near future and calls on everyone to participate in this endeavour.
The U. S. stands firmly with the people of Kenya; it is only Kenyans who can find a way to resolve their differences and chart the destiny of this great country,” it added.
