Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
NAIROBI, KENYA–U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) led a congressional delegation to Kenya this week. On his trip, Senator Coons and the delegation met with national leaders, including outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, as well as presidential candidates Deputy President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Additionally, they met with other officials from the United Democratic Alliance and the Orange Democratic Movement Party. The delegation also visited Carolina for Kibera, a non-profit that provides critical health care services and disease surveillance in informal settlements in partnership with the CDC, and led a discussion with two dozen conservation leaders from across Kenya. Lastly, the delegation participated in a briefing on counter-terrorism operations in Kenya and Somalia.
“Kenya is at a pivotal moment, and what happens next will impact not only the region but also the United States. I am encouraged by the peace the nation has enjoyed following the recent announcement of the election results and the commitment of both candidates to see the electoral process through and respect the results. In meetings with President Kenyatta and presidential candidates William Ruto and Raila Odinga, my colleagues and I discussed the importance of upholding the rule of law, respecting electoral and judicial processes, and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power that reflects the will of the people. I hope we will continue to look back on this election as a moment when Kenya stood forpeace, democracy, and the rule of law.
“Kenya is a strong ally of the United States, and the success of its democracy is important to promoting peace and security and combatting terrorism in Kenya, Somalia, and throughout the region. My colleagues and I look forward to working with Kenya’s new leadership to advance trade and U.S. business interests through a potential Free Trade Agreement, promote stability through a new Millennium Challenge Corporation investment, and safeguard our citizens through enhanced security cooperation.”
Senator Coons is Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, where he sits on the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy.
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