US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman resigns

US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman during a radio interview at Spice FM on May 15, 2024. [Collins Oduor, Standard]

The United States Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman has resigned.

In an official statement on Wednesday, November 13, Whitman announced she had submitted her resignation to President Joe Biden, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve and strengthen the US-Kenya partnership.

"I am proud to have led a people-centered agenda that saves lives, enhances security, and creates economic opportunities for both Kenyans and Americans," she stated.

The American envoy highlighted her role in securing emergency funding to address catastrophic flooding in 2023 and support ongoing efforts against malaria, HIV, and MPOX.

She noted that her work also expanded opportunities for American companies in Kenya. "When I arrived in 2022, I focused on strengthening these ties through my 'Why Africa, Why Kenya?' presentation to American businesses. Trade, jobs, and U.S. investment in Kenya are at historic highs thanks to these efforts," she said.

Criticism

Her resignation comes amid backlash on social media over her perceived “meddling” in Kenya’s domestic affairs and her outspoken support for President William Ruto.

The hashtag Resign Meg Whitman trended on X, with a section of Kenyans calling for her resignation. 

Just recently, Whitman warned that Kenya’s democracy is in jeopardy unless the recruitment of new Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) commissioners takes place soon.

“IEBC Kenya’s ability to support democracy in Kenya is at risk without the recruitment of commissioners or parliamentary action to provide IEBC funding for voter registration, by-elections, and other election activities,”  the US Embassy in  Nairobi said in a statement on X.

Deputy Chief of Mission Marc Dillard will now take over affairs at the US embassy.