Kenyans baffled by Obama's Ghana choice

Kenyans are still baffled why US President Barack Obama, with proud roots from Kenya, chose Ghana rather for his historic visit to Sub-Saharan Africa.

According to Roy Obama, a first cousin of President Obama, although the family, and Kenyans in general, are “not upset” about the choice, the decision is a mystery they have to solve.

“(The visit to Ghana)is a lot of mystery people (Kenyans) are trying to unravel.” He told host of Joy FM's Super Morning Show, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah on Thursday.

"I feel it is beyond us."
Roy Obama is in Ghana to be part of the unfolding history as Ghanaians prepare to welcome and celebrate his cousin.

He said he has accepted the fact that Obama is not coming to Kenya even though there were high expectations of him going to Kenya after his election.

“I think we should leave it to God” he said.
Roy Obama was rather happy that, at least, his choice would “change the way people think”, in the sense that because his relatives are in Kenya, people would instinctively expect that Mr Obama would shelve all other interests and responsibilities as the US President, and defy all odds to visit his father's country, Kenya, taking into account the moral support they offered him in the run-up to the American election.

He said his decision not to visit Kenya first would teach the authorities the need to reform their leadership style and deepen democracy in the country.

The family back in Kenya, Roy Obama said, even though is proud to be Mr Obama's relatives, is maintaining a low profile.

"We feel humble, we feel honoured, but it doesn't change the way we used to relate with people, the way we look at things and the way we associate with people."

President Obama's visit, tipped to improve the relation between the two countries, and improve Ghana's democracy, economy and tourism in general, has sent tongues waging in some countries.

Mr. Obama's choice of Ghana for his first official trip to Sub-Saharan Africa has triggered a bout of self-questioning in Nigeria and Kenya, where many see his itinerary as a deliberate snub, Reuters news agency reported.

Mr and Mrs Obama, their two children and other members of their entourage are expected in Ghana on Friday, July 10, 2009. Barack Obama will leave on Sunday morning, July 12.

Story by Isaac Essel/Myjoyonline.com