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.