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| United States Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman |
She emphasized that any perceived closeness to the president was strictly formal, stating, “I speak to him quite often, but I call him when I really have something to say.”
In response to host Jeff Koinange’s inquiry about her alleged alignment with Ruto’s UDA political camp in the 2022 Presidential elections, Whitman stressed her political neutrality as an Ambassador.
She clarified, “I had just gotten here and had arrived on August 1, 2022, and didn’t really understand much about what was really going on. The Americans take pride in that we don’t take sides in elections.”
Despite facing criticism, Whitman reiterated her dedication to collaborating with the Kenyan government and the president to benefit the nation.
“When President Ruto was duly elected, I felt that it was fair and credible elections…I got criticism for that,” she said.
She highlighted their joint effort in inaugurating new manufacturing companies in Athi River, which are projected to create 20,000 jobs for young people over the next two years.
“We went to Athi River a week and a half ago to open nine new manufacturing companies that would create 20,000 jobs over the next two years for young people,” Whitman added.
By Joseph Muia