Obama congratulates President-elect Uhuru

By Njambi Mungai and Mercy Oyaya

Nairobi, KENYA: America’s President Barrack Obama has today sent a congratulatory message to the President-elect Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto following their win in the March 4 General Elections.

The congratulatory message was delivered to the President-Elect’s KICC office by the American Ambassador Robert Godec.

In the congratulatory message, Obama said the electoral process and the peaceful adjudication of disputes that ensued are testaments to the progress Kenya has made in strengthening its democratic institutions.

“Now that your election has been confirmed, you have the opportunity to build on the promise of Kenya’s Constitution and solidify its place as a vibrant and prosperous democracy centered on the rule of law,” said Obama.

He further said that since Kenya’s independence , the United States and Kenya have been strong partners united by a shared commitment to democracy, security and opportunity.

“Together we have faced many problems, solved many challenges and our cooperation has benefitted both of our peoples,” he added.

In reponse Uhuru said that Kenya regards the US as a valuable development partner and ally in addressing regional challenges especially terrorism, insecurity, money laundering and piracy.

While expressing his government’s committment to nurturing a philosophy of constructive engagements, he added that he looks forward to strengthening ties and cooperation between Kenya and the US for the mutual benefit of the two countries.

He also stated that his government’s immediate priority is to unite the people of Kenya and hoped for the support of the US and other development partners in managing the country’s diversity.

The meeting was attended by outgoing Foreign Affairs Minister prof Sam Ongeri, Permanent Secretaries Thuita Mwangi and Mutea Iringo among senior government officials.