WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Chris Coons (D-DE), members of the Senate Foreign Relations Africa and Global Health Policy subcommittee, released the following joint statement on this morning’s decision by the Kenyan Supreme Court to annul the result of last month’s presidential election, citing irregularities. Booker is the Ranking Member of the Africa and Global Health Policy subcommittee.
“Today’s ruling by the Kenyan Supreme Court is an historic moment for both Kenya and the continent of Africa, and is a testament to the independence of Kenya's judiciary and the resilience of its democracy. This is an important opportunity for Kenya to demonstrate its commitment to its new constitution and the rule of law. We urge all parties to peacefully accept the ruling of the Supreme Court and take the necessary steps to hold elections later this year.”
“We stand ready to support Kenya in its pursuit of a strong and robust democracy. We noted following the August 8 election that Kenya stood at an important crossroads. It could either remain a beacon of democracy, economic vitality, and political stability, or falter towards instability as happened in 2007. We urge calm and patience as Kenya’s electoral institutions now continue the critical work of holding free, fair, peaceful, and credible elections.”