The sports category has moved to a new website.

Why US Secretary of State won't hold talks with Raila during Kenya tour

Tillerson is expected in Kenya later this week

Mr Tillerson is set to hold talks with President Uhuru Kenyatta in his week-long visit to Kenya and four other African countries commencing Tuesday.

Donald Yamamoto, the acting assistant secretary of state for African affairs, noted in a press briefing that he and US Ambassador Robert Godec have spoken with Mr Odinga and other Nasa figures on numerous occasions.

He said US officials have had "behind the scenes" talks with the Opposition that have contributed to “robust relationships” between Mr Odinga and other figures in Nasa.

ADVERTISEMENT

“We're not ignoring the opposition,” the acting head of the Africa Bureau added. “It plays a critical role”.

Mr Yamamoto argued that Tillerson's visit is aimed at having talks with the President Kenyatta's government.

He also endorsed the performance of Ambassador Godec despite calls from some Nasa MPs to have him recalled from Kenya. Foreign envoys were accused by Nasa of failing to address electoral injustice following last year's protracted polls.

Mr Yamamoto however noted that Washington's envoy to Nairobi is among the most senior US diplomats serving in Africa. He said Ambassador Godec stands as “a model of leadership and engagement.”

Mr Tillerson’s visit to Kenya and four other African countries is partly intended to make amends for President Trump’s reportedly vulgar remarks about the continent and to counter the perception that Africa now matters little to US policymakers.

ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: news@pulselive.co.ke

Recommended articles

10 African cities with the highest crime index at the start of 2024

10 African cities with the highest crime index at the start of 2024

Machoka at 70: Emotions run high during Citizen TV presenter's birthday [Video]

Machoka at 70: Emotions run high during Citizen TV presenter's birthday [Video]

Diwali 2022: Is Monday a public holiday in Kenya?

Diwali 2022: Is Monday a public holiday in Kenya?

Akothee finally reveals reasons for separating from Omosh 1 month after wedding

Akothee finally reveals reasons for separating from Omosh 1 month after wedding

Man, once a ‘billionaire’, recounts how he lost wealth, now sells his book on streets [Video]

Man, once a ‘billionaire’, recounts how he lost wealth, now sells his book on streets [Video]

Details of Ngina Kenyatta's luxurious restaurant

Details of Ngina Kenyatta's luxurious restaurant

Zero Chills! Jackie Matubia's advice for Milly Chebby amid the unfollow drama

Zero Chills! Jackie Matubia's advice for Milly Chebby amid the unfollow drama

Nigerian royal dignitaries, including four kings and a queen, expected to attend Museveni’s 50th wedding anniversary celebrations

Nigerian royal dignitaries, including four kings and a queen, expected to attend Museveni’s 50th wedding anniversary celebrations

10 African countries with the strongest military power in 2024

10 African countries with the strongest military power in 2024

ADVERTISEMENT