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Former US President Barack Obama has criticised institutions and businesses that made deals with the Trump administration, advocating for a principled stance. This development could influence public discourse and policy execution in Kenya
Former US President Barack Obama has called upon universities, law firms, and businesses to uphold their convictions rather than compromise with the Trump administration. Speaking on the final episode of Marc Maron's podcast, "WTF With Marc Maron," Obama stated, "We all have this capacity, I think, to take a stand." His remarks, made on Monday, October 13, 2025, suggest that institutions should resist pressure and adhere to their core values, even if it means potential financial repercussions.
Obama specifically highlighted instances where organisations conceded to the Trump administration's policies, including those related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and federal funding. He suggested that institutions should be prepared to say, "This will hurt if we lose some grant money in the federal..." rather than bending to pressure. He also referenced the need to resist being "bullied into saying that we can only hire people or promote people based on some criteria that's been cooked up by Steve Miller," a former top White House aide known for his hardline immigration policies.
Obama's recent comments echo his past sentiments regarding ethical conduct in public service. In November 2016, as his presidency concluded, Obama advised then-President-elect Donald Trump to divest from his business interests to avoid conflicts of interest, a practice Obama himself followed by investing in Treasury bills. This earlier counsel underscored his belief in maintaining clear ethical boundaries between personal business and public duty.
The relationship between US political shifts and their impact on global partners, including Kenya, is a recurring theme. During the first Trump administration, the US and Kenya initiated discussions for a free trade agreement, a move not continued by the subsequent Biden administration, which instead launched a Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP). Such changes highlight the fluidity of international relations based on varying US political priorities.
In Kenya, public debate and policy execution are significantly influenced by various stakeholders who consistently advocate for clarity on timelines, costs, and safeguards related to new policies. The media also plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse and influencing policy decisions, as evidenced by past instances where extensive coverage led to government action.
The potential for shifts in US policy, influenced by domestic political tensions, could affect existing agreements and partnerships with Kenya, particularly in areas such as trade, security, and development aid. Kenyan observers closely monitor US domestic politics for any indications of changes in foreign policy that could impact the continuity of agreements like the Major Non-NATO Ally status and trade partnerships.
While Obama's statements are directed at US entities, the underlying principle of taking a stand resonates with Kenyan stakeholders. Organisations like the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) have previously raised concerns about corruption and inefficiency within government agencies, emphasising the need for vigilance and multi-sector collaboration to ensure transparency and accountability. This aligns with Obama's call for institutions to uphold their convictions and resist undue influence.
For Kenya, a potential shift in US policy could lead to reduced military aid, training, and intelligence support, particularly critical given ongoing security threats like Al-Shabaab along the Somalia border. Economically, changes in trade policies, such as increased tariffs or a re-evaluation of preferential trade pacts like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), could significantly impact Kenyan businesses.
Furthermore, Kenya might find itself navigating a complex geopolitical landscape if it becomes entangled in US-Chinese geo-economic rivalry, considering both nations are vital development partners. The US government's approach to its partnership with Kenya is crucial, as Kenyans are likely to view the relationship with suspicion if it appears to benefit only ruling elites rather than the general populace.
The precise extent to which US domestic political tensions will directly influence foreign policy decisions towards Kenya remains uncertain. While former President Trump's past rhetoric suggests a potential for significant changes, Kenya's long-standing strategic value to the US may temper radical shifts. The continuity of existing agreements and the broader implications of US geopolitical strategies on Africa, particularly concerning security and economic aid, remain critical points of interest for Kenya.
The podcast episode featuring Barack Obama was released on Monday, October 13, 2025. This discussion comes as the "WTF With Marc Maron" podcast concludes its run after 1,686 episodes.
Observers in Kenya will continue to closely monitor the trajectory of US domestic politics, paying particular attention to any statements or policy proposals from leading political figures that could indicate shifts in foreign policy. The continuity of existing agreements and the broader implications of US geopolitical strategies on Africa, especially concerning security and economic aid, will remain critical areas of focus for Kenya.
The Kenyan government and civil society will likely continue to advocate for transparent and accountable governance, aligning with the spirit of Obama's call for institutions to uphold their convictions in the face of political pressure.
