The United Kingdom High Commissioner to Kenya, Jane Marriott, has dismissed reports of the UK supporting specific candidates in the just concluded general election.
In a tweet on Monday, August 22, Marriot said that neither her nor the UK supported specific individuals or parties in Kenya’s election.
Speculations had been rife on social media that the UK was supporting UDA President-elect William Ruto.
“There has been a lot of misinformation circulating in the last few days about the UK & myself with regards to Kenya’s elections. For the avoidance of doubt, I want to categorically reiterate that the UK does not support or have a view on any candidates or parties in elections,” Marriott stated.
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She further maintained that whoever was elected in Kenya was a matter of the people of Kenya adding that Kenya will remain a vital partner for the UK through Strategic Partnership.
“Who Kenyans elect is a matter for the people of Kenya. We meet people from across the political spectrum to explain the UK’s programmes and partnership with Kenya, including independent institutions,” Marriott added.
She maintained that she was in full support of the statement by the international community which commended the country for holding a peaceful election.
Through a joint statement by Ambassadors and High Commissioners in Kenya, the international community urged political leaders and parties to follow the existing mechanisms for dispute resolution in case of any disagreements.
“We commend the people of Kenya for the peace and calm displayed on Election Day, the IEBC’s organisation of the elections, and the positive roles played by civil society, religious and business leaders, and the security sector. Kenya has set an example to the region and continent as a whole,” the statement read.
