US Lawmakers Slam Decision Not To Allow President Ruto Address Congress

In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• The Congressional Black Caucus criticizes Speaker James Johnson for not allowing President William Ruto to address a joint session of Congress, despite awarding him an honorary membership.
• Ruto commends the CBC for its advocacy during his visit to the United States Capitol, urging Congress to lead in reshaping the global financial system to alleviate Africa’s debt burden.

The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) of the United States criticized Speaker James Johnson for not allowing President William Ruto to address a joint session of Congress, despite bestowing him with an honorary membership in the CBC. 

Although Ruto was denied this opportunity, the CBC expressed pride in welcoming him to the United States Capitol.

During the meeting at the Capitol, Ruto commended the CBC for its advocacy in advancing social justice, human rights, and global economic development. 

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He urged Congress to lead in reshaping the global financial system to alleviate Africa’s debt burden and foster worldwide transformation.

The CBC, comprising African American members of Congress, focuses on addressing legislative concerns of Black and minority communities to ensure their representation in the legislative process. 

Meanwhile, Speaker Johnson’s deputy chief of staff Raj Shah cited scheduling constraints for the decision not to invite Ruto to address a joint session of Congress, offering alternative engagement options instead.

Despite the setback, Ruto’s invitation marked a significant milestone, as he would have been the first Kenyan leader to address a joint meeting of Congress and the first African leader to do so since Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in 2006. 

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Formal requests had been made to the Speaker of the House by House Foreign Affairs Committee Member Gregory Meeks and Committee Chairman Michael McCaul.