Secretary of State Antony Blinken commended President William Ruto for his efforts to ease tensions by committing to dialogue with protestors and civil society. The conversation, held on the evening of June 26, 2024, also saw Blinken urging investigations into allegations of human rights violations. This discussion followed President Ruto’s decision to withdraw the Finance Bill 2024, returning it to the National Assembly.
In a statement attributed to spokesperson Matthew Miller, Blinken reaffirmed the United States’ partnership with Kenya’s government and people in addressing economic challenges.
The Secretary expressed gratitude to President Ruto for his proactive steps and reiterated the importance of security forces exercising restraint and avoiding violence. Blinken further welcomed Ruto’s pledge to uphold Kenyans’ constitutional rights, including the right to peaceful assembly and due process for detainees.
