The Acting Ambassador of the United States to Kenya, H.E. Mark Dillard, paid a courtesy call to Parliament Buildings on Tuesday morning, where he held discussions with a senior parliamentary leader. The meeting underscored the enduring diplomatic relations between Kenya and the United States, with both parties engaging in a cordial and constructive exchange on key bilateral and domestic matters.
As Ambassador Dillard approaches the end of his tour of duty in Nairobi—set to conclude on July 19—he reaffirmed the United States’ continued interest in Kenya’s stability and prosperity, particularly in light of ongoing public demonstrations linked to the proposed Finance Bill.
During the meeting, the parliamentary leader emphasized Kenya’s commitment to upholding constitutional principles, including the right to peaceful assembly and the rule of law. He noted that law enforcement must operate within the confines of legal and institutional accountability, particularly in the wake of recent demonstrations.
Referring to the tragic killing of blogger Albert Ojwang and the injury of a protester during last Wednesday’s protests, the leader confirmed that a formal response is expected from the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen. “These incidents are being taken seriously,” he assured, “and they will be addressed with the transparency they deserve.”
The conversation also touched on electoral matters, with the parliamentary leader expressing concern over the delay in reconstituting the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). He stressed the importance of timely preparations for the next general elections, including the delimitation of electoral boundaries, voter registration, and cleanup of the voter roll to enhance electoral credibility.
In a positive development, Ambassador Dillard informed his host that U.S. student visa interviews for Kenyan applicants have resumed after a brief suspension—a move welcomed as a boost to educational and cultural ties between the two countries.
As the meeting concluded, the Kenyan official extended best wishes to Ambassador Dillard as he prepares to assume a new diplomatic posting in South Africa. “His tenure in Nairobi has been marked by a spirit of dialogue, goodwill, and continued partnership,” he noted, expressing optimism that the Kenya-U.S. relationship will grow even stronger in the years to come.
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