President Uhuru Kenyatta on Tuesday evening, December 28, held a discussion with US Secretary of State via a phone call.
US Department of State Spokesperson Ned Price noted that the two leaders' discussion centred on peace efforts in the larger Eastern Africa region.
In the ongoing conflict in Ethiopia, they agreed on the urgent need for a cessation of hostilities as well as efforts to improve humanitarian relief in the country.
"In Ethiopia, they agreed on the urgent need for a cessation of hostilities, unhindered humanitarian access, an end to human rights abuses and violations, and a negotiated resolution to the conflict.
"The Secretary expressed the strong support of the United States for the mediation efforts of President Kenyatta and AU Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Olusegun Obasanjo," stated Price.
On the Somalia situation, the Secretary underscored the importance of Somalia’s national and Federal Member State leaders concluding parliamentary and presidential elections immediately and free from irregularities that would jeopardize the credibility of the outcome.
"The Secretary noted the U.S. opposition to the attempted suspension of Prime Minister Roble, and they agreed that all parties should refrain from escalatory actions and statements," Price added.
The call comes barely two weeks after Uhuru held a global meeting with US President, Joe Biden, revealing his preparation for elections and how he has created a voting culture in the country.
During a virtual summit organised by US President, Uhuru informed over 100 delegates that he had engrained an election culture that has seen regular elections held in a competitive manner by allowing the formation of different political parties.
He also highlighted the principle of free and fair election during the summit revealing his plans to uphold the same towards the end of his administration. He insisted on the need to respect the constitution even as the country nears the August 2022 General Election.
"The principle of a free and fair election in every five years is legally enshrined in Kenya's Constitution and provided for in the Election Act. Towards this end, my administration is on course to hold the third General Election under the 2010 Constitution," Uhuru stated during the December 10 meeting.
