US responds to Ruto’s stance on LGBTQ
The US government has been drawn into the heated debate on same-sex relationships and marriage in Kenya.
Speaking on Friday in Kitengela, Kajiado County, US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman said they will respect the stand of each country on LGBTQ rights.
“In the United States we probably have a different position which includes LGBTQ rights as human rights but we respect every country’s point of view on what position they want to take on this and we will respect that. But of course our democratic values and the way we feel is different and that is okay,” Whitman said.
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The US ambassador acknowledged that countries have their differences when it comes to the gay and lesbian debate, but that notwithstanding long-term relationship between the US and Kenya will not be affected.
“We have our very strong working relationship over many years and I think the Kenyan government probably knows the US perspective, in fact, I know they do but we also respect Kenya’s right on this particular issue,” said Whitman who was accompanied by Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku.
The US ambassador’s response comes just a day after President William Ruto categorically stated that there is no place for same sex marriages in the country.
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“It will happen elsewhere; it won’t happen in Kenya. We know that there are many people spreading this idea, our children in university are being pressured by these dirty teachings. I ask all religious leaders in the country to stand firm and educate our children and Kenyans so that we do not lose our customs, Christian and Islamic religious beliefs to platforms that are preaching foreign concepts,” President Ruto said.
The president further said the Supreme Court’s ruling on the registration of LGBT’s associations in the country is against the culture and traditions of Kenyans.
At the same time, the US Ambassador said there is no link between the US donation of Sh16 billion in support of Kenya’s drought relief efforts with LGBTQ campaign.
Also read: Ruto – Same-sex marriages will not happen in Kenya