EC AMBASSADOR MICHEL'S VISIT

C O N F I D E N T I A L NAIROBI 000238 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 01/22/2018 TAGS: PREL PGOV KDEM KE FR SI SUBJECT: EC AMBASSADOR MICHEL'S VISIT Classified By: Ambassador Ranneberger, reasons 1.4 (b,d) ¶1. (C) EC Commissioner Louis Michel made a one-day visit January 19 to press for a political solution to the electoral crisis. According to the French Ambassador (who is representing the EU presidency in the absence of Slovenia), Michel had consulted with Kofi Annan before visiting in order to ensure that his visit supported the African eminent persons efforts. ¶2. (C) Michel met together with Vice President Musyoka and a number of ministers, and had a one-on-one with President Kibaki. He also met with Odinga and members of his team. Both Kibaki and Odinga confirmed their positions that they are willing to meet face-to-face under the aegis of Kofi Annan. According to the French Ambassador, Kibaki during a larger meeting stressed the need to ensure law and order, and downplayed the seriousness of the problems in the country. During the one-on-one meeting, however, he recognized that the country faces a serious crisis and welcomed the opportunity provided by the Annan visit. ¶3. (C) Michel reportedly told his interlocutors that the recent European Parliament resolution urging sanctions against Kenya for failure to resolve the electoral crisis reflects European frustration. He downplayed the possibility of sanctions being imposed in the near-term, but made clear that &all options are on the table.8 The media quoted him as saying that &the EU will not take any precipitating action against Kenya, but will wait for the outcome of the dialogue.8 ¶4. (C) According to Foreign Minister Wetangula, Michel conveyed a pledge of approximately 8 million dollars in assistance for those who have been displaced by the violence. RANNEBERGER