DP Ruto urges US to support Kenya’s democratisation 

Deputy President William Ruto has urged the United States and Kenya’s other traditional allies to continue to support the country’s democratisation and the holding of a free, fair, and credible election. 

In the bilateral meeting discussing US-Kenya Strategic Partnership, US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Molly Phee today assured the US government that Kenya can count on its voice in safeguarding democracy and advocating a free and fair election in August 2022. 

He also emphasised Kenya’s role as an anchor state for peace and stability in the East and Horn of Africa region, but warned against political and economic exclusion, which he sees as a threat to the country’s cherished status in the region, and two issues he sees as crucial in the August 2022 election. 

Ruto, along with his Kenya Kwanza Team rival Musalia Mudavadi, pledged to hold a peaceful election while assuring the United States of a reliable and strong partner in bilateral relations. 

The Kenyan delegation expressed gratitude to the United States for continuing to help the health sector, notably in the fight against HIV/AIDS, TB, malaria, and cholera. The United States’ anticipated investment in vaccine production in Nairobi was also lauded by the group. 

Meanwhile, the United States administration commended Kenya’s UN stance on Ukraine. 

Governor Anne Waiguru, MP Adan Duale, and Ababu Namwamba were among the Kenyan leaders that attended the bilateral talks. 

Ruto is also scheduled to visit the White House for a meeting with the National Security Council. 

The DP had earlier singled out blackmail, threats and intimidation as some of the main hurdles to free elections. 

Ruto, was speaking in Maryland yesterday as part of his US visit, stated that Kenyans want to choose their preferred leaders without being intimidated by anyone, especially the state apparatus, which has been on the lookout for some candidates ahead of the elections.  

The key topic on the ballot in the 2018 elections, according to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party head, is the country’s democracy, whether voters are given the opportunity to make their own decisions free of extortion, threats and intimidation.  

Caption

Deputy President William Ruto meets US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Molly Phee at the State Department March 3 2022.

 By John Willy