Jane Marriot Reveals How Uhuru Govt Plotted to Revenge Against Britain Over Red Listing

The outgoing UK High Commissioner to Kenya Jane Marriott recalled a plan by former President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration to revenge against Britain when Kenya was red-listed during the pandemic. 

During an interview with KTN News on Saturday 3rd June, she stated that England asked her to forbid Kenyan flights from entering the United Kingdom due to growing Covid-19 cases. She tried to mediate between both governments and submitted two requests to the British government; one being that UK researchers do a video call with Kenyan scientists in order for them to explain the situation and for the announcement to be made after the Easter holidays.

Marriott conveyed that the UK government initially agreed to her request, but then put Kenya on the red list without acting on her appeal. The changes caught her unawares, prompting Kenya's government to respond with an emergency meeting to determine how to respond to Britain's move. In response, they asserted that the decision was discriminatory and could have a negative impact on their relationship with the UK.

Kenya retaliated by requiring visitors from the UK to quarantine in a government facility for 14 days at their own expense. After England lifted the ban, Kenya removed the quarantine requirement a few weeks later. Speaking about Kenya's election, the UK High Commissioner supported Kenya's mission to renew the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) before the 2027 General Election.

Marriott asserted that a capable Opposition is needed to ensure the government is held responsible. She also asked politicians to be open during the campaign period to win citizens' trust. When looking back on her time as UK High Commissioner, she noted that the position overstepped her privacy since many people requested VISA help from her in public spaces. Although she didn't disclose her next course, she indicated she was ready for another venture.