The United States has been accused of considering revoking travel visas for some top Kenyan government officials.
US ambassador to Kenya Kyle McCarter has, however, denied the reports suggesting that his government was considering the action against Kenyan officials for curtailing freedom of speech, assembly, and association in the country.
“As far as am concerned there is no such a move by the USA these are rumors, I don’t know such information and personally I have no powers to do so“, he said while urging Kenyans to watch out for fake reports.
He was speaking in Kirinyaga where he stated that the US will, however, not sit and watch youths being incited by politicians to cause mayhem in the country.
He was responding to a hard hitting statement on Thursday, October 8, where US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo sent a tough warning to Kenyan leaders over political intimidation of opponents
The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression and association are at the heart of a functioning democracy. Adherence to these democratic norms and to the rule of law allows all citizens to engage in political dialogue and support their choice of candidates, parties, and platforms,” he said.
“We will watch closely the actions of individuals who interfere in the democratic process and will not hesitate to consider consequences – including visa restrictions – for those responsible for election-related violence. As long-time partners to the nations of Africa, we care about the region’s democratic trajectory and are committed to working constructively with international and regional partners,” Pompeo added.
The Us ambassador to Kenya however said that politicians found culpable for the losses of covid 19 funds will face stern measures from his government.
