US Congressman Richard Neal Urges Congress to Allow President Ruto’s Address Amidst Controversy
Fresh developments have arisen regarding the suggestion for President William Ruto to speak before the US Congress during his upcoming State Visit later this month.
Reports suggest that the invitation for Ruto to address Congress might be turned down, prompting US Congressman Richard Neal of Massachusetts to criticize Speaker Mike Johnson sharply.
In a strongly worded statement dated Friday, May 10, Neal expressed his belief that the Speaker failed to grasp the significance of Ruto’s visit to the US, questioning why Ruto wouldn’t be permitted to address Congress when other world leaders have been given the opportunity during their state visits.
Neal pointed out that previous Republican leadership had invited leaders such as Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and President Yoon Suk Yeol to address joint sessions of Congress during their official visits to the United States. He saw no reason why Ruto’s forthcoming state visit should be treated differently.
He emphasized the historical precedent of Congress acknowledging the importance of such visits even during times of crisis, urging Speaker Johnson to extend an invitation to the Kenyan Head of State.
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Neal also stressed the importance of Africa as an equal partner to the US, highlighting the continent’s contributions to America’s status as a global superpower.
He recalled hosting former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and their discussions on strengthening economic ties between the two countries, urging Congress to follow the Biden Administration’s lead in hosting a state dinner for Ruto.
Congresswoman Terri Sewell of Alabama echoed Neal’s sentiments, emphasizing the significance of bolstering Kenya-US relations.
These statements from leaders come amid speculation that the proposal for Ruto to address Congress may be declined, with an official from the Speaker’s office citing a congested schedule as the reason for the potential refusal.
Speaker Johnson has yet to formally announce his decision on the matter.
US Congressman Richard Neal Urges Congress to Allow President Ruto’s Address Amidst Controversy
