Ichung’wah Backs Whitman’s 2022 Poll Remarks
Kimani Ichungwa, the majority leader of the National Assembly, defended US Ambassador Meg Whitman, arguing that contemplating the outcome of the 2022 presidential election is not neocolonialist.
Ichungwa characterized opposition leader Raila Odinga’s remarks as unfortunate while addressing congregants in Kisii on Sunday, emphasizing that there was nothing improper about Whitman’s comments regarding foreign investments and Kenya’s political climate.
He was referring to the opposition’s criticism of Ambassador Whitman after she gave a clean bill of health to the 2022 General Election.
He went on to say that Whitman’s remarks on investments could lead to more foreign investment in the country, which in turn could lead to more job creation.
Ichung’wa stated, “We have witnessed a very unfortunate incident in which leaders are lecturing our diplomatic community, and it is sad when leaders who hold offices and lead parties in our country are lecturing our diplomatic community on issues they know to be true.”
“There is nothing neocolonial about an ambassador of a friendly nation speaking not only for her country but also for the host nation where she is serving.” There is nothing neocolonial about an ambassador urging investors from their home country to invest in the United States.
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Ichung’wa urged all ambassadors in the country to disregard the opposition’s discouraging remarks, stating that Kenya values their contributions and roles.
“Do not be disheartened by the naysayers; instead, take heart in the fact that many Kenyans value the friendship of your countries; they value your friendship as ambassadors and heads of mission representing your countries’ interests in our country,” he said.
Whitman, speaking to leaders at the Eldoret devolution conference, stated that Kenya held the most free and fair general election in 2022. Ichugwah’s remarks followed Whitman’s.
Raila Odinga responded by requesting that Whitman refrain from interfering with the country’s affairs, or they would seek her recall to the United States.
“I would like to advise the errant ambassador to leave Kenyans alone. If maandamano can facilitate communication between Ichung’wah and Kalonzo, then everything is fine with maandamano, according to Odinga.
“Tell the rogue Ambassador that Kenya is not a colony of the United States and is not part of the United States; keep your mouth shut while you are here, or we will recall you to your home country.”
Other leaders who have come forward to defend Whitman include Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula and Foreign Affairs Minister Alfred Mutua, with the latter characterizing Whitman’s comments regarding the country’s election as candid and truthful.
Ichung’wah Backs Whitman’s 2022 Poll Remarks