The United States Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, on Wednesday, November 13, resigned from her ambassadorial role days after Donald Trump was elected as the 47th President of the United States.
Whitman, while announcing her resignation, revealed that she had already submitted her resignation letter to US President Joe Biden. Ambassadors serve under the Presidency, with the Head of State reserving the right to revoke any appointments at any time.
The resignation comes barely a week after Kenyans asked US President-elect Donald Trump to recall Whitman. Since protests broke out in June, resentment against Whitman has been on the rise with a section of those who criticised her faulting her for backing the government and her silence on vices such as forced disappearances and extra-judicial killings.
Meg Whitman went ahead to term her role as the US ambassador as an "honour and privilege" and that under her service, the United States was able to strengthen its partnership with Kenya.
"From delivering emergency funding to alleviate catastrophic flooding in 2023 to the ongoing eradication of malaria, HIV, and MPOX, the US government prioritizes the health and welfare of our friends in Kenya," read part of Whitman's statement.
Other notable achievements the US ambassador to Kenya highlighted include the decision by Joe Biden's administration to elevate Kenya as its first major non-NATO ally in sub-Saharan Africa.
According to Whitman, the achievements reflected the importance of both countries' ability to stand for each other and protect the shared democratic values and enhanced security.
"Trade, jobs, and US investment in Kenya are at historic highs because of our efforts. We also responded to the skyrocketing demand for our consular services, reducing wait times for nonimmigrant visa appointments from more than two years to about two months," Whitman noted.
While underscoring the significance of her achievements in Kenya, Meg Whitman noted that her service in the country was at the request of President Joe Biden.
The US ambassador also took the opportunity to commend the incoming President Donald Trump even as she exuded confidence in the continued partnership between the US and Kenya.
"Our Embassy benefits from highly qualified Kenyan and American employees who will continue their efforts under the leadership of Chargé d'Affaires Marc Dillard to advance the shared goals on which our bilateral relationship has long been grounded," Whitman wrote.
"Our relations are stronger than ever, and I am confident this trajectory will continue. I will depart Kenya full of gratitude for the team that has worked tirelessly on my behalf, for the opportunity to serve my country."
