President Uhuru Kenyatta held a meeting today with the United States of America (U.S) Senator Chris Coons. The U.S Senator paid Kenyatta a courtesy call at the State House, Nairobi.
Coons, who is leading a congressional delegation of US Senators and Representatives, praised Kenyatta for keeping the country peaceful and stable during the election season.
“We are encouraged by the peace that Kenya has maintained over this period,” Senator Coons said.
Kenyatta stated that Kenya will remain steadfast in enforcing the principles of good governance to ensure that the country maintains its status as a shining example of democracy on the continent by ensuring peace during this transition period.
“My greatest desire is that peace will prevail and we may set an example in the continent and the world,” he said.
The US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman said Coons will also visit groups fighting to empower girls as well as environmentalists and healthcare professionals.
The meetings come at a time when Raila Odinga has disputed the declaration of his main rival, William Ruto, as the President-elect, saying the electoral commission unlawfully announced the results.
Ruto was declared President-elect by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman Wafula Chebukati, having garnered 50.49 per cent of the valid votes cast against Raila’s 48.85 per cent.
The U.S has so far not congratulated President-elect Ruto but the Embassy has commended the active participation of Kenya’s political parties, civil societies, and citizens in shaping robust discussions throughout the campaign period.
“We applaud the efforts of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, security forces, and all electoral institutions to organise a peaceful and orderly voting and counting process,” the U.S Embassy said.