Gachagua wants Trump to appoint 'tough' ambassador to Kenya
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on United States President Donald Trump to appoint a tough ambassador to Kenya with qualities of Smith Hempstone...
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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged United States President Donald Trump to appoint a tough ambassador to Kenya , akin to Smith Hempstone , to address alleged human rights abuses by President William Ruto's regime. This appeal comes amidst concerns of possible diplomatic fallout between Nairobi and Washington.
- Gachagua accused President Ruto's government of grave human rights abuses during an event in Kansas City on Wednesday, August 6.
- The appeal specifically references Smith Hempstone , who served as US ambassador to Kenya from 1989 to 1993 and championed democratic ideals.
- Kenya faces a potential review of its Major Non-NATO Ally status , granted in June 2024 , following a bill presented by Senator James Risch of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
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Concerns over Kenyan Governance and US Relations - August 2025
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged US President Donald Trump to appoint a "tough" ambassador to Kenya, akin to Smith Hempstone, to address alleged human rights abuses by President William Ruto's administration. This plea comes amidst potential diplomatic fallout with the United States, including a review of Kenya's Major Non-NATO Ally status. Gachagua reiterated his call for a "tough" ambassador, signaling deep concerns about the current governance. Adding to the scrutiny, Canada-based Kenyan politician Lucy Jeffrey has challenged the legality of President William Ruto's Sh42 million reward to the Harambee Stars, questioning the due process and source of funds from the Ministry of Sports, raising concerns about public resource allocation.
