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Meg Whitman, the United States Ambassador to Kenya, announced her resignation on Wednesday, November 13, bringing her two-year tenure in Nairobi to an end.
Appointed by outgoing President Joe Biden in August 2022, Whitman’s time in office was marked by notable achievements in strengthening U.S.-Kenya relations, as well as controversies over her perceived role in Kenya’s domestic political landscape, including allegations tied to extrajudicial killings and abductions during anti-government protests.
Her resignation, which came just days after Republican candidate Donald Trump won the presidency, is part of the diplomatic transition accompanying the change in U.S. leadership. “I announced to my team at the U.S. Embassy that I submitted my resignation to President Biden,” Whitman said. “I leave Kenya full of gratitude for the opportunity to serve my country and for the friendship offered by the government and the people of the beautiful Republic of Kenya.”
Whitman’s tenure saw significant strides in economic diplomacy and bilateral cooperation. She spearheaded efforts to elevate Kenya as the United States’ first Major Non-NATO Ally in sub-Saharan Africa, a move she described as a testament to the nations’ shared values and security priorities.
“This year, the United States elevated Kenya as its first Major Non-NATO ally in sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting the importance our countries place on standing shoulder to shoulder to protect shared democratic values and enhance security,” Whitman remarked.
She was also instrumental in fostering trade and investment opportunities, helping more American companies establish operations in Kenya. “Our efforts have created jobs and increased U.S. investments in Kenya, opening the door for stronger economic ties,” she said.
Her leadership extended to health and disaster response, with the U.S. providing emergency funding for catastrophic flooding in 2023 and continuing support for malaria, HIV, and MPOX programs.
Controversy Over Governance and Human Rights
Despite her achievements, Whitman’s tenure was overshadowed by criticism over her perceived partiality toward President William Ruto’s administration. This became particularly contentious during Kenya’s 2022 elections, where Whitman praised the process as free and fair, sparking backlash from opposition leaders and human rights groups who alleged electoral irregularities.
“The reaction and the feeling of many Kenyans is that Meg Whitman did not come out as the champion of human rights, democracy, and good governance,” said Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka. “The feeling is that she was very pro-President William Ruto rather than focusing on Kenyan affairs. Her exit was due!”
Whitman’s name also surfaced in discussions surrounding the extrajudicial killings and abductions of Kenyans during anti-government protests earlier this year. Human rights organizations accused the U.S. Embassy of turning a blind eye to these violations, which they claim were carried out by state actors in the name of maintaining order. Critics argued that Whitman’s close ties to the government made her complicit in overlooking these atrocities.
Whitman had defended the U.S.’s focus on stability in the region, often reiterating the importance of security and economic progress. However, her perceived silence on human rights abuses fueled criticism that she prioritized political alliances over democratic principles.
Whitman’s resignation drew contrasting reactions from Kenyan leaders and the public. Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika hailed her contributions, particularly in trade and investment. “Say what you may, but she truly loved Kenya and marketed it like no one else could. She was a passionate and positive force in helping us impact the lives of our communities,” Kihika said.
On the other hand, a section of Kenyans on social media expressed relief at her departure, citing her controversial role during protests and elections.
As she exited her role, Whitman expressed confidence in the enduring partnership between the United States and Kenya. She praised her team at the embassy and assured Kenyans that Chargé d’Affaires Marc Dillard would continue advancing their shared goals. “I have no doubt that our 60 years of partnership will continue to strengthen and serve Americans and Kenyans,” she said.
Whitman added, “Like all ambassadors, I serve at the request of the president, and a new president will be taking over. The American people have spoken, and I wish the new president and his team success.”
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