Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump to appoint a strong and principled ambassador to Kenya one who can challenge President William Ruto’s administration over alleged human rights abuses and democratic backsliding.
Speaking on Wednesday, August 6, during his ongoing tour of the United States, Gachagua invoked the legacy of former U.S. Ambassador Smith Hempstone, who served in Kenya from 1989 to 1993 and was widely known for his bold criticism of President Daniel arap Moi’s regime and unwavering support for multiparty democracy.
“We are appealing to the American government, and specifically President Donald Trump, to appoint an ambassador to Kenya of the same calibre and mindset as Smith Hempstone,” Gachagua said.
“Hempstone stood with the people of Kenya during a time of political repression, and we are once again in need of such courage and conviction.”
Gachagua, now leader of the Democratic Change Party (DCP), argued that Kenya is experiencing a resurgence of authoritarian practices, including police brutality and enforced disappearances, and needs international allies who will not shy away from speaking out.
“We would be very happy to have someone like Hempstone in Nairobi again someone who can help restore respect for democracy and human rights in our country,” he said.
His remarks come amid heightened political tensions in Kenya, with opposition groups and human rights organizations accusing the Ruto administration of suppressing dissent and undermining democratic institutions.
Historically, the United States has appointed ambassadors to Kenya who have played active roles in pushing for democratic reforms.
Michael Ranneberger (2006–2011) was outspoken during Kenya’s 2007–2008 post-election crisis, while Robert Godec (2013–2019) consistently emphasized transparency during the Uhuru-Ruto era.
Most recently, Meg Whitman served as U.S. ambassador from 2022 until early 2024.
Currently, the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi is headed by Chargé d’Affaires Carla Benini, who assumed the role in July 2025 following Whitman’s departure.
Her diplomatic approach is yet to be fully seen, but Gachagua’s comments signal a call for more assertive U.S. engagement in Kenya’s internal affairs.
