Kenya to Seek Assurance On Relations with US after Polls

Ambassador Carson

Kenya will seek clarification from the US government on relations between the two countries after the March 4 General Elections.

Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet Francis Kimemia said the Kenyan government welcomes President Obama’s declaration that he will work with whoever Kenyans elect as President.

He however said the government is compelled to seek clarification on the true US stand after Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Ambassador Johnnie Carson’s Thursday warning that the choice Kenyans make in the elections will have consequences

Ambassador Carson’s remarks are being interpreted by the Kenyan government as a warning that the US may review its relations should Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta and his running mate William Ruto get elected to the top office.

Mr Kenyatta and Mr Ruto are facing crimes against humanity charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Mr Kimemia said Ambassador Carson’s remarks contradict President Obama’s earlier assurance to Kenyans that the US government was ready to work with any candidate who Kenyans elect.

In a video message to Kenyans on Tuesday, President Obama had assured Kenyans that the US will not endorse any presidential candidate in the general elections

Ambassador Carson however, in a teleconference on Thursday, warned Kenyans that the choice they will make on March 4 will have consequences.

Mr Carson advised Kenyans to be thoughtful about the impact of their choices on Kenya and the world.

He did not however mention the name of Mr Kenyatta and Mr Ruto in the teleconference. - Daily Nation