Kenyans react to president Museveni’s speech at Safaricom Stadium, Kasarani.
NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 12 – Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has lashed out at Western nations during celebrations to mark Kenya’s 50 years of independence, accusing them of undermining the sovereignty of African states.
He made reference to a letter written by 53 members of the African Union expressing discontent over the manner in which the International Criminal Court has been targeting Africa and especially President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto.
“We are celebrating 50 years of independence but there is still danger. Our sovereignty is being undermined,” Museveni warned.
According to Museveni, African states have already expressed discontent especially over the ICC cases against President Kenyatta and Ruto.
“Led by our chair here, we sent a letter to some people. One hundred million people wrote a letter… we said, leave Kenya alone. Some people said that did not concern them and asked us who are you?” Museveni lamented.
He said despite the negative treatment from the West, Kenya and other African states should not be afraid.
“I have fought for independence for many years, I urge you not to be afraid,” he advised.
Amidst a cheering crowd that had gathered in thousands to witness the 50th anniversary celebrations, Museveni warned that Africa has the ‘remedy’ to protect itself from intimidation by the West.
In his sarcastic and calculated attacks on ICC and the West, Museveni boldly warned the international community that Africa will stand up against manipulation and intimidation.
“Africans tempt foreigners by being weak. When you are weak you tempt the greedy to attack you and we know how not to be weak. Dawa tuko nayo (we have the remedy) to Africa’s fear,” he asserted.
In reference to the Lord’s Prayer, he indicated that Africa will lead Africans in the right path; “If people have no eyes to see, we will show them, our Lord’s Prayer says, thou shall not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”
Earlier, Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete reaffirmed his country’s commitment to remain in East African Community, support Kenya and stand by the resolutions of the EAC.
“Tanzania will continue being a friend of Kenya and will continue working with Kenya and also remain as members of the East African Community,” he said.
Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan also told Kenya that solutions to Kenya’s problems would only be found in Kenya and by Kenyans.
“Nobody and no other institution can defend the people of Kenya more than the Kenyan people. Nobody can love you more than yourself and nobody can develop Kenya more than yourself,” Jonathan advised as he urged Kenyans to remain united.
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