Alfred Mutua to Raila: Leave Meg Whitman Alone, She Spoke the Truth

President William Ruto government has sided with US Ambassador Meg Whitman after opposition leader Raila Odinga criticized her endorsement of the August 2022 elections as the country's most credible in history. 

In response, Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua countered that Odinga's remarks lacked validity and authority. Mutua went on to affirm the Kenyan government's favorable view of the ambassador's endorsement of the country's democratic movement, while emphasizing that only the government is authorized to appeal for the mandatory removal of a foreign diplomat. He added that if there is an issue with a diplomat or country, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs is responsible for summoning and seeking clarification.

Dr. Mutua extended a welcome to partners willing to uphold Kenya's progress plan. This comes after Ms. Whitman received a standing ovation at the Devolution Conference for acknowledging the Kenyan President Ruto's advancements in clamping down on corruption, and spearheading investments in Kenya. However, the opposition figure denigrated Whitman over what he deemed meddling in Kenyan 'affairs'.

“I want to tell the rogue ambassador, leave Kenyans alone. If maandamano can lead to dialogue between Ichung’wah and Kalonzo, everything is good with maandamano. Tell the rogue Ambassador [that] Kenya is not the United States and it is not a colony of the United States; keep your mouth shut while here, otherwise, we will call for your recall back to your country,” Mr Odinga said. 

Dr. Mutua defended Ms. Whitman, stating that her message aligns with Kenya's economic empowerment plan and that she recognizes the country's potential under President Ruto's leadership. He also said Ms. Whitman does not require retribution from anyone who loves Kenya.