Former DP Rigathi Gachagua has called on US President Donald Trump to appoint a strong-willed ambassador to Kenya, one capable of confronting the administration of President William Ruto over alleged human rights violations.
Speaking during an interview while on his US Tour on Wednesday, August 6, the former DP alleged that it is time Kenya gets an ambassador with the same characteristics as former Ambassador Smith Hempstone, who served in Kenya from 1989 to 1993.
Hempstone is remembered for his outspoken criticism of the late President Daniel Arap Moi's regime and his unwavering support for multiparty democracy during a turbulent era in Kenyan politics.
''We are hoping and we are appealing to the American government and specifically President Donald Trump, that as he chooses an ambassador for Kenya, because the position is vacant, he considers giving us an ambassador to Kenya of the same calibre and thinking and orientation as Smith-Hemstone,'' Gachagua said.
''Hempstone came in to help the people of Kenya when they faced similar circumstances of violation of human rights and the erosion of democracy,'' Gachagua continued.
The former DP alleged that it would be an honour for the country to get such an ambassador, especially at a time when the country continues to face cases of police brutality and forced disappearances.
''We would be very happy if we could get an ambassador. The calibre of Steve Hempstone to come to Kenya and help us to restore our democracy and to restore the respect of human rights in our country,'' the DCP party leader said.
Gachagua's special plea comes at a time when the country is experiencing political tension, with opposition leaders and human rights organisations accusing the Ruto administration of suppressing dissent and undermining democratic institutions.
Kenya has seen several ambassadors from the US who have been vocal in keeping ruling administrations in check.
Some of these ambassadors include Michael Ranneberger (2006–2011), who was vocal during the post-election brutality of 2007–2008, and Robert Godec (2013–2019), who consistently urged transparency and accountability during the Uhuru-Ruto administration.
Most recently, Meg Whitman served as ambassador from 2022 to 2024.
The current US diplomatic post in Nairobi is held by Chargé d’Affaires Carla Benini, appointed in July 2025. She has been in the position for barely a month, and her approach remains to be seen, but Gachagua’s appeal suggests a desire for more assertive engagement from the US.
