The direct involvement of international actors, such as Western nations, in the domestic affairs of another country, like Kenya, would amount to a breach of that country's sovereignty, Faith Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya, said in an interview with Sputnik Africa.
"This is not only a violation of International standards but can result in international dispute and conflict," she added.
Odhiambo reminded that sovereignty is fundamental to international law and stability. However, countries have interests affected by the internal affairs of others. Kenya, a key player in Africa with a mature democracy and growing economy, attracts significant international attention and interest.
Speaking of foreign involvement, she recalled the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that has been accused of pushing Kenya government to adopt Finance Bill 2024 that has caused sparked violent protests in the country in mid-June.
"If you take a look at the structure of the IMF, the Executive Board which ostensibly runs the organization is largely comprised of representatives from the US, Japan, China, which each hold astronomical number of votes in the IMF. [...] If the IMF is to influence Kenyan affairs, you can easily infer which country’s interests are best served," the speaker explained.
But what alternative blocs and countries can African states cooperate with in order to maintain their sovereignty? Odhiambo believes that enhancing African unity and facilitating intra-continental relations and trade is essential. She sees the African Union as a sleeping giant with the potential to emulate other regional blocs like the European Union.
"As a continent, we need to engage in serious, deliberate conversations on how to move forward. [...] It may be hard work, but the outcomes are certainly better than what we presently face — neocolonialism," she concluded.
Ford Foundation and Ruto's Accusations
Established in 1936 in Michigan by Ford Motor Company president Edsel Ford and two other executives, the Ford Foundation aimed to "receive and administer funds for scientific, educational and charitable purposes, all for the public welfare.”
It has since become one of the world's leading philanthropic organizations, operating in 11 regions across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and North America. Headquartered in New York City, it is the 11th wealthiest foundation globally with a $13.7 billion endowment.
The foundation has been active in Kenya and East Africa for decades, supporting “open civic space, civil society and public dialogue with the government” to help Kenyans, Ugandans, and Tanzanians shape their societies. Known for its big grants, the Ford Foundation helped establish the University of Nairobi in 1963 and has funded Eastern African universities to "invest in the region’s future."
The Kenyan president alleged on Monday that the foundation supported "anarchy" by financing anti-government demonstrations that escalated into violent riots. The organization refuted any involvement in providing financial support or sponsorship for the recent rallies against the finance reform.