US ambassador to Kenya applauds Osama's death

By James Ratemo

Outgoing US envoy, Michael Ranneberger, is a happy man following death of Al-Qaeda leader, Osama bin Laden.

Speaking during a farewell reception hosted by former Kenya’s Attorney General, Charles Njonjo,  Ranneberger said justice has finally been served through the killing of Osama by U.S. forces’.

"They say the last act is the most important, and so I want to say how much satisfaction I personally take, and demonstrate on behalf of my government, that justice has been served through the killing of Osama Bin Laden by U.S. forces.

Osama bin Laden [Picture/Courtesy]

In addition to recalling the horrific attack on the U.S. by Bin Laden in 2001, the envoy said it is important to remember the killing of so many Kenyans and Americans in the attack on the U.S. Embassy in 1998 by al Qaeda.

"Those victims and their families and loved ones have now received a measure of justice. I well recall the sombre commemoration I hosted for the 10th anniversary of the 1998 bombing. Thus, for me personally – and of course more importantly for the Kenyan people – the killing of Bin Laden provides a sense of closure," he said.

He assured that Kenya and the US will continue to work together to combat terrorism.

The envoy called on the electorate and political leaders to work together "to end impunity, to counter negative ethnicity, and to promote national healing and reconciliation."

"My message to the Kenyan people is simple and direct: Hold leaders accountable. Reject hate speech. Insist on prosecution of corruption and the imprisonment of those found guilty. Insist on full implementation of the constitution. The U.S. Government will continue to speak out forthrightly and to provide strong support for your efforts

Ambassador Scott Gration succeeds Ranneberger.