For the first time US President Barack Obama has publicly and in person answered the question about just why he opted to snub his father’s ancestral home of Kenya while on his tour of Africa.
His answer…”The timing was not right in the wake of the country and her president sorting issues with the international community”. Jacky Maribe reports.
Barack Obama’s decision to not visit Kenya during his presidency, despite his Kenyan heritage, was influenced by several factors, blending diplomatic considerations with personal reflections.
Political and Diplomatic Considerations
A significant reason for Obama’s avoidance of Kenya was the political situation surrounding the country’s leadership. In 2013, Kenya’s newly elected president, Uhuru Kenyatta, faced charges from the International Criminal Court (ICC) related to the 2007 post-election violence.
U.S. officials expressed concerns that a presidential visit during this period could be perceived as endorsing a leader under indictment.
Deputy National Security Adviser Ben Rhodes emphasized the U.S. commitment to accountability and justice, suggesting that the timing wasn’t ideal for such a visit.
Additionally, Obama’s administration aimed to promote democratic governance and stability in Africa. Countries like Senegal and South Africa, with more stable political environments at the time, were prioritized for visits to align with these objectives.
Personal Reflections and Symbolism
Obama’s relationship with Kenya is deeply personal, given his father’s roots in K’ogelo. However, he expressed that visiting Kenya as president was complex. He noted that such a visit would be laden with political symbolism, potentially overshadowing the personal significance of returning to his ancestral homeland.
Public Perception and Criticism
Many Kenyans felt disappointed by Obama’s decision to skip their country. Some viewed it as a missed opportunity to engage with their heritage, while others understood the diplomatic reasons behind the choice. A community development organizer remarked that Obama likely avoided Kenya to prevent any association with controversial leadership.
The 2015 Visit
Obama eventually visited Kenya in July 2015, marking a historic return. This visit was seen as a significant gesture, acknowledging his Kenyan roots and aiming to strengthen U.S.-Kenya relations. However, it came after the ICC charges against President Kenyatta were dropped, and the political climate had stabilized.
In summary, Barack Obama’s decision to not visit Kenya during his presidency was a confluence of diplomatic strategy, political considerations, and personal reflections, culminating in a highly anticipated visit later in his term.
