The United States government has issued a statement regarding the unofficial swearing-in of Raila Odinga on Tuesday as the “People’s President”.
The US Department of State spokesperson Heather Nauert cited that the issue is of grave concern because it undermines the rule of law in a country that already has a dully elected President.
“We reject actions that undermine Kenya’s constitution and the rule of law. Uhuru Kenyatta was elected as president of the Republic of Kenya on October 26, 2017 in a poll that was upheld by Kenya’s Supreme Court,” read the statement sent on Thursday as quoted by the Star.
Raila unofficially took oath as the People’s President at Uhuru Park on Tuesday in the presence of thousands of his supporters who cheered him on.
The oath was administered by Ruaraka MP TJ Kajwang together with lawyer Miguna Miguna-all of whom have been arrested in connection with the swearing-in.
Kajwang was arrested on Wednesday and was charged before Ngong Resident Magistrate yesterday. He was released on Sh50, 000 bond.
Miguna was arrested at his Runda home on Friday by police officers who he said ransacked his house before whisking him away.
The US has since called for national dialogue to address longstanding issues that are likely to threaten cohesion in the country.
“The United States continues to support efforts by religious, business, and civil society leaders to begin this conversation in the near future and calls on everyone to participate in this endeavor,” added the statement.
Nauert also called on security operatives in the country to refrain from using excessive force in dealing with naysayers.
She said those found to be on the wrong should be dealt with as prescribed by the law.
“Any arrests and prosecutions must be made in full accordance with the rule of law and demonstrate transparent due process.”