US envoy to Kenya Gration resigns

United States ambassador to Kenya Scott Gration has resigned citing differences with Washington over his leadership style.

In a statement, Major General (rtd) Gration said he had written to US President Barack Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to inform them of his decision last Monday.

He said it "has been a great honour and a profound privilege" to serve as the US envoy to Kenya since May 2011.

"However, differences with Washington regarding my leadership style and certain priorities lead me to believe that it’s now time to leave," he said.

"Accordingly, I submitted my notice of resignation last Monday to the Secretary of State and to the President of the United States of America, to be effective as of 28 July 2012."

Dream job

He said his posting to Kenya has "been a dream job for my wife and me" and an opportunity to interact with Kenyans and learn their culture and language.

Major General (rtd) Gration said he wished Kenya well as it implements the Constitution and prepares to hold a pivotal General Election. He said he would miss Kenya and its people.

"Judy and I have been extremely honoured to lead Team Kenya, and we wish all of you the very best as Kenya implements its constitutional reforms, holds elections next year, and proceeds with the devolution of political and economic power," he said.

"But as we depart, we will deeply miss Kenya, the Kenyan people, our partners in the diplomatic corps, and our colleagues in the US Mission.

"Our hearts will remain here with you and with the true friendships that will endure until death."

President Obama picked Major General (rtd) Gration, who was the US Special Envoy to Sudan, to replace Michael Ranneberger last year.