Kibaki congratulates Obama and declares public holiday

President Kibaki on Wednesday morning sent a congratulatory message to President-elect Barack Obama on his election as the 44th President of the United States of America.

At the same time, President Kibaki declared Thursday a public holiday.

“This is a momentous day not only in the history of the United States of America, but also for us in Kenya. Senator Obama’s victory is our own victory because of his roots. We are full of pride for his success,” President Kibaki said.

Foreign Affairs minister Moses Wetang’ula said he hoped that the new leadership of President-elect Obama will move America away from lone ranger tactics and unilateralism in handling international affairs to a more consultative and multilateral approach.

This, he said, is the only way the world will be a safer place for all.

Mr Wetang’ula said the victory was a triumph over racial barriers and prejudices that have ruled the world against black people.

He said he hoped that Africa and Kenya in particular will get more support from the US in the fight against poverty and underdevelopment.

The new leadership should help grow African economies so they move from the dubious distinction of being the suppliers of raw materials for developned countries.

Tough challenges

President Kibaki later made a televised statement congratulating Mr Obama. In his morning message, President Kibaki said Mr Obama’s victory was clear testimony of the confidence the American people have, not only in his leadership and vision for his country, but for the world at large.

The victory, he said, was a culmination of a gruelling campaign and highly competitive election which proved beyond doubt his determination and courage to overcome tough challenges.

Former President Daniel arap Moi also sent a congratulatory message to Mr Obama. The retired president said that he had followed the campaign closely and did not doubt the confidence Americans had in Mr Obama.

“The Kenyan people, where you trace your roots, noted with joy your commendable oratory, persuasive powers and gentlemanly conduct. Your victory is a momentous turning point in the politics and race relations of the USA,” Mr Moi said.

Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka said Mr Obama’s victory heralds a new dawn in America’s history and in its relations with other nations.

“It is exciting for Kenya, not only because of his roots but because an Obama victory is a harbinger of good tidings, especially for our tourism sector,” Mr Musyoka said.

The VP said Americans would now wish to visit the country where their new President’s father came from. Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi said Mr Obama’s victory was a tremendous achievement.

Speaking from China, Mr Mudavadi said the win shows that parties, race, positions in society and ethnicity have no place in modern democracies.

Feel closer

Mr Mudavadi said Africa should benefit, adding that the continent will now feel closer to the US. Kenyan Muslims joined the celebrations for Mr Obama’s win describing it as a new dawn for the world.

A statement signed by Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims secretary general Hassan Ole Naado said it was elated by the “strong democratic culture Americans presented to the world.’’’