Kenya wins a race to the UN seat after vying with Djibouti

United Nations meeting awaits. File

President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto have welcomed  Kenya’s throbbing victory in Thursday’s second round of voting in the elections for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2021-22.

CS Monica Juma, who initiated UNSC campaign, says the win reaffirms confidence in our contribution to international peace and security. 

The President termed Kenya’s win as a “demonstration of the country’s growing profile and influence in the community of nations as a steadfast and dependable development partner.” 

The Chairman of 12 African GLRPSF states, Richard Ngatia, terms Kenya's win at UNSC a boost in global peace through trade.

The Head of State thanked Kenya’s competitor in the election, the Republic of Djibouti for being a worthwhile opponent and the African Union for the endorsement as the continent’s flag bearer in the contest. 

Kenya, the President said, will endeavour to consolidate and voice Africa’s position in the Security Council and will advance its 10-point agenda as outlined during the campaign period.

Kenya was declared the winner on Thursday night, after beating Djibouti with 129 votes against 62 in the second round of voting at the UNSC headquarters in New York City. 

Kenya enjoyed the support of the African Union, even as Djibouti pushed to have the seat due to Nairobi’s past participation on the Security Council and the principle of rotation. 

French-speaking Djibouti and English-speaking Kenya both highlighted their roles in seeking peace on the Horn of Africa, as well as their contributions to UN peacekeeping options.