Obama presses for press freedom

Obama! This... O-Bama! That... Oh! Bama! Ooooh! Bama!... Ohhhhhha.. ad nauseam. Has anyone at The Trib noticed that po' Jeff Zeleny is working himself to death and everyone else is taking a late summer vacation and otherwise doing little of anything productive? Guess they're all packed and leaning forward in their foxholes, just waiting for "Ed" to send them to Florida to cover the Katrina II Fiasco. What a life! -- That is, unless they link you up following some idiot "new" senator intent on wasting the taxpayers money as he walks around looking for his "Roots" in Africa. Makes you wonder what "Ed" and The Trib are really trying to say and do, don't it?

Reported by "The Standard', but not reported by Jeff Zeleny: Obama's planting a tree with Prof. Wangari Maathai, who is known for her charges that AIDS was invented in Western European/American labs as a biological agent to kill Black people.

Perhaps Mr. Zeleny should do a little reporting on the curious, to say the least, company that Obama keeps on his African junket.

I wonder if Obama will press for the government accountability he claims to care so much about when an investigative reporter demands to know who paid for his trip to Africa, and if it was the taxpayers, exactly how much it cost them?

It is a shame that Mr. Obama has taken the inevitable plunge into politics. He has to increase his public recognition in order to advance. In doing so, he sacrifices many of the tenets that made a life long republican vote for him. Farewell Mr. Obama.

I always feel bad criticizing Obama, because he's a decent bloke and has great promise. But he tends to play things too safe. You want attention on Darfur? Then the only Black senator needed to call out Kofi Annan and ask why Arab and Jewish lives in Lebanon/northern Israel were so much more valuable than Black lives in Sudan. Why sending an agressive peacekeeping force in Lebanon couldn't be linked to sending them to Darfur, where so many more are dying from at the hands of a government which had already killed 2 million in the last decade.

More broadly speaking, it's time for our junior senator to spend a little of this political capital he's amassed.

According to the note that preceeds this comment box:
"Comments are not posted immediately. We review them first in an effort to remove foul language, commercial messages, irrelevancies and unfair attacks."

...and yet the very 1st comment I see above refers to Senator Obama as:
"some idiot "new" senator intent on wasting the taxpayers money as he walks around looking for his "Roots" in Africa."

Racial implications aside, doesn't calling someone, ANYONE, an "idiot" qualify as an unfair attack??? If you consider this a debatable point please at least consider that this kind of language debases this forum.

Mr Hewitt, you're criticising Barack [gasp!] THAT'S RACISM!

Comparing the reporting practices of The Standard to the Chicago Tribune? What a joke.

Wangari Maathai did also win the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize. Let's not discredit Wangari completely here as some kind of psycho and criticize Obama for planting a tree with Wangari.

Hey Bill-
Who do you think pays for these trips?? You really can't be serious about wanting to know.
Who paid for corrupt Dennis Hastert to go to Iraq 6 times and for Dubya to fly all over the country and the world.
It's the taxpayers dumb dumb.

Are people who post comments here happy with nothing? Or understanding of so little? Has no one any clue what a huge deal it is that a U.S. Senator is visiting the home of his father in any other country than the U.S., and AFRICA to boot? This is historically significant, not to mention politically. Sure, the Trib has given Obama quite a lot of real estate regarding his trip, but Obama can't be blamed for that, I would argue. If I were president of the World I'd still want to go visit the homeland of my parents, so being Senator shouldn't affect that.

Has anyone noticed that he is making speeches about freedom of the press, and against political corruption? Also, has anyone noticed that he and Sen. McCain are the only U.S. Senators discussing with any sincerity and seriousness the idea of creating an ethics structure that is external to the U.S. House of representatives to help curb corruption and increase accountability here in America? Not to mention the only two really acting on those discussions?

In a country (Kenya) where everyday people have so much less than most of the everyday people in the U.S., why should they not be fiercely proud of a man of Kenyan parents who has risen to his current position? Why shouldn't Sen. Obama share that and do what he can to influence governments in other countries?

As for political capital, Sen. Obama is the 99th junior-most Senator. I would argue that he may not have as much political capital on the Hill as others may think - yet. It is not only up to Mr. Obama as the only black Senator to address the plethora of social ills... I know I plan to call Mr. Durbin (you know, our other senator and the Democratic Whip?) and stress the importance of proper diplomacy and foreign policy. It is not up to black folks to end racism, it up to all of us, including white folks especially. We're all responsible. Just like we are responsible for the foreign policies so many of us are currently irritated with.

Mr. Obama didn't put that big "S" on his chest - WE put it there. If we are to be irritated with any entity, I'd suggest it is the over-inflation of his visit by major media outlets. I think he's just doing the best he can using the influence that he has. I congratulate him on using his travels to continue to promote peace and ethics, and I understand that if he wants to go visit other countries safely he should probably do it now, before he gets more famous and has to waste more of our precious taxpayer dollars on security.

I wonder how much it costs us to keep our current President safe while traveling abroad...

Sen Obama's much acclaimed tour of africa is nothing but a PR mission aimed at boosting his international standing and marketing himself .Being an african and a kenyan for that matter its funny that in all the media coverage nobody has mentioned that kenya is a deeply conservative country that would be shocked at some of sen obamas liberal views such as gay rights and abortion which go against african and kenyan culture

Greg R. This dum-dum wants to know. It's not necessarily the taxpayers footing the bill, either Greg-Greg. Didn't you see the front-page story in the Tribune about how congressman Danny Davis traveled on a terrorist organization's dime? One that supports the use of child soldiers and suicide bombing?

I know you haven't been following this thread, long, Greg-Greg, but this junketeering is a common way to buy influence in Washington. And there's been no actual accounting of taxpayer money if it was a government-funded, diplomatic trip. I'm from Missouri, show me!

I'm telling you, some investigative reporter needs to get on this. It's either a huge waste of taxpayer money or patent influence purchasing.

Kelsey, welcome to the Swamp. Even though I don't go around calling people names I've been called worse than "idiot" every time I've posted here.

As a Kenyan born not too far from Obama's late father's "tin shack home" and currently residing in the US, I'm severely disheartened by Joe Ndungu's commentary that Obama seeking to visit his father's place of birth is a mere PR mission. It is the Ndungu's of Kenya who help prop up my nation's scandal and hopelessly corruption-prone government, by disseminating profuse fictions to the Western media that belie the reality on the ground, in order to protect their tribal ascendency in Kenya.There are many ndungu's in Kenya and we are used to their opinions which are not worth a bowl of warm spittle for the most part.

Jessica F...nice try but the hateful are out in full force. They really don't care why he's there
or whether it cost money, they just want to hate.
I will say one good thing...There is a poster who likes to use multiple identities...so hopefully a lot of the spew comes from not as many as you might think.

I can tell you this returning troops who have problems with VA are taken care of by him.. Every veteran who has called him for help got it. Republicans like J Dennis Hastert,Judy Biggert have done nothing for them when called. That a pure fact I know I help the vets and the troops and have called both sides.

Bill,
If your from Missouri, concern yourself w/ your own senators

Kelsey,get use to the racial implications,every time Obama is mentioned on this web site,the KKK gets their shorts in a bunch.

Not since his election has Mr. Obama recieved the extent of hype that he has for this trip. That defines the whole adventure right there. Number 1, first and foremost, ATTENTION!!!
He could have gotten an HIV test in any low-income area of the city, and helped raise just as much awareness. Most activities on this trip are being covered by the news, even if they are not that exciting. So, like the WWE, most or all of this event is pre-staged, the outcome pre-determined. Make sure the press are everywhere, put out as much PR as possible before arriving at each location. Make sure the press knows where the toilets are just in case Mr. Obama wants to bring attention to the plight of public restrooms.
I am a republican, but supported Obama. He did not have the typical "buy me and I'll support you" sound that nearly all other politicians have. But, he has come to the realization that if he wants to go further, he must cast aside his morals and ethics, and become a politician. His vote is available to the highest bidder, and the more you can give, the more he will give. This is the inevitable path that all politicians take. If they stick to their morals and ethics, they are lucky if they rise above municipal government.
So Mr. Obama, enjoy your trip. You are now well on your way to emulating Mr. Ted Kennedy, a leach who can kill someone and still be a senator. Happy trails!!

Joe Nungu, sorry, but you are patently wrong. Not all Kenyans are conservative, you know. In addition, when you make a claim about "African or Kenyan culture," are you insinuating that this culture is monolithic? There is no such thing as an overaching African culture, but there are different African cultures.

By the way, the South African High Court and the Cabinet just approved gay marriages last week.

Joe Ndugu..Lets get very real here..just for a freaking moment,shall we?The average kenyan is very much scratching the bare hard ground to notice the difference between Obama's liberal views and whoever's conservative views;those views dont put food on the table and heavens knows we need food on the table.Obama doesnt offer the average Kenyan anything material,but he hells of a lot symbolizes something to him.And thats whats important to alot of kenyan folks.The kenyan political scene has never nor is it about to be about so and so's liberal views and whether he is conservative or not.Lets not insert american sentimentality into our own lives coz for all that its worth,Americans can afford to tickle me to no end on what Kerry said and whether Hillary Clinton has a cute smile on tv,but at the end of the day,that factory or bridge is gonna get constructed,the highways are still gonna get repaired regardless.Our politics has yet to mature into a level where the basic services to the common man will be catered for.I am yet to see a politician in Kenya remorseful for whatever transpired while he/she was in office and taking responsibility.Of course everyone knows what we luck or rather what we have in abundance.We have a lot of shameless politicians,tearing themselves in public,giving birth to new political parties every fortnight and quietly increasing their salaries by over 300% behind closed doors;the only thing they ever seem to agree on.So cut me some slack on Obama,he is a calm,intellectual and i dare add, believable voice within this chaotic crowd that we Kenyans call our leaders.And for Pete's sake,stop with all the platitudes about liberalism and conservatism,lets strive to put food on the table,maybe we might end up just constructing the table,but that as they say,is a start.

"According to the note that preceeds this comment box:
"Comments are not posted immediately. We review them first in an effort to remove foul language, commercial messages, irrelevancies and unfair attacks."

K.Taylor,

That disclaimer is simply a fig leaf. If you really expect fairness and relevance you will need to go to a different time and place.

"So, like the WWE, most or all of this event is pre-staged, the outcome pre-determined. Make sure the press are everywhere, put out as much PR as possible before arriving at each location. Make sure the press knows where the toilets are just in case Mr. Obama wants to bring attention to the plight of public restrooms. "

But WHY? Your assertion is that it is all about selling out. Scooping up the publicity and money to further his political aspirations.

You do know Obama is an African American, right? You do realize that the average African faces challenges that would make most Americans white with fear, right? War, famine, an AIDS pandemic, etc., etc. They have a shit life.

My point is that it is entirely reasonable to assume that Obama is making a good faith effort to help the people of Africa by setting a good example and using what political power he has to influence the governments and people there. Sure, he gets something out of it (publicity), but not everything in Washington is as hollow and vacuous as you assume.

Also, it is good to see the right wing out so early in trying to demonize Obama. (Not speaking to Rob here, but the first few posters.) The next election is going to be ugly, no matter who is nominated. Go partisan politics!

As a taxpayer I'm delighted to pay for Obama's trip to Africa. At least there is one senator who knows where it is. Our one-party government is so totally ignorant of this world today. But, of course, we're America and we don't need to know anything. We're No. 1 and that's all that counts. How ignorant!

Yet the best the Senator can offer are "concerns" when it comes to local corruption. Why not show similar zeal in pressing governments in the Senator's own State to end corruption no less...?

Crazy Duck,

The KKK gets their shorts in a bunch. Which poster is Senator Robert Byrd?

I think Obama is bright, articulate and witty. Furthermore he has done nothing to warrant being hoisted to our shoulders and carried into the White House.

HOW does that make me a racist?

Who here has posted a racist comment and when? I really want to know.

Anybody who thinks there's race baiting here, please take your time and check the archives before responding.

I hope all those criticizing Obama's presence in Kenya will read his address to those gathered at the University of Nairobi, and televised live by one of Kenya's private television stations on corruption and the dangers of tribal politics. He didn't say anything new. But the fact that he has openly challenged the Kibaki government on corruption and building a more transparent and accountable administration, and that he has spoken to the most activist community in Kenya (university students) means that there is a chance that what so many people have been saying about the root problems in Kenya may actually be acted upon. What has taken place in Kenya over the past four days is usually only reserved for prominent Kenyan politicians- the crowds, the attentiveness to all his words, the access to media, and the very specific places that he has chosen to visit- all leaving tremedous hope that things will change in Kenya even more than they have over the past 15 years. His visit has been a real blessing Kenya's democratization process and for that he should be extremely proud.

Some folks are absolute cynics. I think Obama's trip to Africa is a meaningful one. The reception and love he has received thus far in Kenya is real and quite humbling. The Senator has represented the US very well during his trip. He went to Africa with a lot of credibility and am sure people paid close attention to what he had to say.

Following Senator Obama's visit to Africa and particularly to Kenya, it is sad to note that he appears to be on a government bashing crusade characteristic of the ongoing partisan politics.

One is left wondering about the intentions for this particular visit.

In the recent past, we have had two prominent leaders of the ODM that is very vocal in its opposition to the current Kenyan government, visiting the U.S seeking political support. Probably this is part of what they were looking for.

I'll take a guess at Juanito's question about the racist comment... The first post by O.B. Nausea refers to Mr. Obama as searching for his "Roots" (notice the capitalization) is, I believe, at least one of the statements in question.

"Roots" is a novel by Alex Haley chronicling the lives of an African American family as they attempt to regain an identity stolen from them by slavery and racism.

I would explain more, but I really truly hope folks can get it from there. Thank you for asking us to look again at the posts- I didn't see this earlier or I'd have said something much sooner.

Blantant racist comments are easier to deal with though - its easy to see and easy to confront. What's far more frightening is the much more deep-seeded, passive-aggressive racism that we live, deal with and exude every day. I read it all over in some of these posts. I think much of it is unintentional, which is part of the challenge. It is much easier to deal with a blantant bigot and much more difficult to reach out to those who mean well but often are defensive or don't understand (or won't) the impact of what they do and say on others. I'm certain in my own well-intentioned post earlier that I managed to think or say something racist, whether I meant to or not. I'll keep working.

Janet, in case you don't know, Missouri is known as the show me state. Saying "I'm from Missouri, show me!" is a figure of speech. The expression was coined by Representative Willard Van Diver. It conotates a certain self-deprecating stubbornness and devotion to simple common sense, which is obviously in dire short supply here in Illinois if you judge it by our elected leaders.

I'm actually from the North Side of Chicago. I'll try to not use any expressions like that, anymore, I just thought it was a generally understood colloquialism as we're only one state away. Didn't mean to talk over your head, there.

Does it seem to make a difference that the Senator is in Kenya to strengthen relationships between to countries? Tax paid or not he is working towards a common goal, to unify two continents. For nothing else trade, AIDS awareness and counter Terrorism are important to everyone who want to live.
So lets stop bickering and have positive inputs.

So what if Obama visited Africa in search of his "Roots"? So what if American taxpayers are paying for his African safari (who knows where else our tax dollars go)? So what if he is 99th in Senate seniority? So what if he planted a tree with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Wangari Maathai? So what if he took an HIV test? So what if he visited Africa's largest slum, Kibera (yes it is!!)? Yes, all this in the name of political mileage. Some of the comments on this blog stink of white-hooded nativist paranoia. Atleast the man has found and is prideful of his roots. How many of you know where you came from, yet alone care about your geneology? Atleast the man has not turned a blind-eye to the plight of Africa. He may have had a trip without a solid domestic political agenda as viewed by his constituents, but his voyeuristic voyage atleast took him out of the cocoon so many Americans enshrine themselves in. Politics does not stop in the neighborhoods of Chicago. If Obama can take away anything from his journey, it is the manner in which his charisma has brought much-needed hope to the ordinary passers-by he has encountered, in the sense that they can empower themselves to overcome the perennial African problems of corruption, disease and poverty that entrench them without the promise of handing out U.S. charity. Isn't America the beacon of hope and freedom? Who knows, may be a foreign policy which is clearly lacking in the upper echelons of power will emerge from his seemingly "unnecessary" trip.

I think its terric to see a U. S. Senator receive adulation and respect in a foreign nation even if it is the land of his father.
We need more personal diplomacy of this kind,

Frankly given the various levels of polarizing other potential candidates for President have of both parties, I would vote for Obama for President in 2008 in a nanosecond.

We in kenya supports Obama's visit to kenya in a bid to trace his origin and most importantly to address serious partinent issues affecting kenyan government.
Obama has called for rise to tribal and partisan politcs and corruption that has bedeviled kenyan government under the current regime that was elected on the platform for change but most intrestingly no change has been realised........what is wrong in Obama reminding/critising the government on improving the lives of his fathers nation.
Keep it Obama and we hope people of illinois will elect you again into greater heights of your political career.

Joel okoth owino
Nairobi university
kenya

In his trip to his father's homeland, Barack Obama is speaking out on issues such as freedom of the press and the AIDS crisis. He is drawing attention to Africa, which typically receives little attention from the American press or the American people.

When I compare this trip to the fiscal priorities of the Bush Administration, it is anything but a waste of taxpayer dollars. We should welcome a leader who seeks to engage people with this words and ideas rather than to coerce them at the point of a sword.

Unfortunately, by the actions of our government abroad, the people of the world are beginning to hold both Americans and our government in contempt. We are losing our way and forfeiting our role as an example for others to follow. The world community needs to understand that most Americans are reasonable, thoughtful, and compassionate, and people everywhere see these qualities in Barack Obama. At home and on the world stage, I find Senator Obama to be a credit to our government and his countrymen.

As an Active duty Soldier, just back from IRAQ, It is sad that while young soldiers are dying for the protection of the so-called, American way of life, We have ignorant people who have so much freedom as to argue about absolutely "nothing"!. I wonder how important all this crap on this board will be when a terrorist crashes into the big buildings downtown. Or will we all be crying and trying to help each other. Sure most of you hide behind these posts, will pull up your skirts and run full pace, away from danger. Whatever the senators Agenda is, your negative and inconsiderate remarks are not in support of his mission. Just as the famous saying goes "Support the Troops", Support you Senator, You may not have voted but the majority did which is why he is there. If "you" feel that you can do a better job, you get elected. Oh' wait, that may be too much to Ask, Just get out and vote. Bottom line people "this is your Conscience, talking. This is crap and ripe with racial overtones. But hey, This is America....SERVE or SHUT UP.

Dear active soldier back from Iraq:
Thank you for defending the world against terrorism. Thank you for risking your life to make the world a better place. I hope no one is disparaging the role of those who have gone to Iraq in the name of the fight against terrorism. What is disappointing however is that it has become the only thing that is important to American foreign policy, at the expense of so much more. In many ways it is understandable that this is so- after all it has been to a large extent Americans who are targetted. However do remember that one of the first places that experienced these terrorist attacks was the American Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya (and Senator Obama duly paid attention to that on his second day in Nairobi). In that attack 12 Americans died and 253 Kenyans died. Kenya has made strengthing its airports, security and borders a primary focus of its national program with the insistence and help of the United States. However there is more that is going on in the world and the fact that Senator Obama has been able to focus on more than just terrorism is a major major breakthrough. America needs to come across as more concerned about what touches peoples lives in a more direct way, and as one person pointed out, putting food on the table, having an opportunity to earn a decent living, living in a free and open society, being able to get the right kind of treatment for diseases, and having a sense of pride and confidence are just as important as the war against terrorism. It is a welcome interlude to see someone with more than just ONE issue on their plate, and what Obama has accomplished in the last few days on his "taxpayers" trip to Africa is not "nothing." Yes some of the comments on finding Roots and racism, and whether or not he planted a tree with Wangari Maathai, or his visit to the "largest" slum in Africa may seem trivial, but they are actually a learning process and help people become more aware of the world around them. Maybe that awareness will also help in the fight against terrorism.

Gregg, whenever Bush flies across the country or the world, it's on official business. Hastert going to Iraq to actually see what is taking place first hand? Wow, I guess Denny should just read the lies and crap dispensed by our UNobjective media, huh?

Obama's roots in Kenya??? Gee, I guess I better explore my "roots" in Switzerland then. I mean, I am 20 percent Swiss!!!

Obama and the CHicago media: what a joke!! Except, the joke is on the people of Illinois.

Senator Obama realizes (in a broad sense)the strategic importance of Kenya in the US Foreign policy. Kenya is the largest economy in East Africa and the most stable country in this war-torn region comprising the Somalis, Ethiopias, Sudans, Rwandas et al.

The Illinois Senator also understands that Kenya collaborates strongly with the US on anti-terrorism efforts since the 1998 US Embassy bombing by Al-Quaeda that killed 12 American diplomats and marines and 250 locals in Nairobi (Kenya).
He makes good use of his Kenyan roots to strengthen that very strategic US-Kenya partnership and starts by doing the very right thing. By encouraging Kenyans to embrace freedom (including press freedom) and democracy while shunning corruption and tribalism, Obama is absolutely on the right track.

Corruption and tribalism in Kenya have reached unprecedented proportions and may be very gateway of terrorists into Kenya. Like most people Obama wishes to curtail this trend.

If a Jewish American Senator follows Israel's interests closely, will it become an issue. What of Senators with Irish or English heritage. Is Obama's African roots the problem here or what.

As to one Joe Ndungu,it is a shame that you import your Kikuyu tribal jingoism and bigotry into an America forum. Obama will not erase his roots and it is attitudes such as yours that he went to address in Africa. On gay rights and abortion, there is nothing like a Kenyan culture and I can surely tell you that the rate of quack abortions right in your native backyard is alarmingly high. How do you address the issue of safe abortions. Get your facts right.

Its good to have both Sen(s) Durbin and Obama having keen interest in African Affairs. Its good to partner with international allies in meaningful ways.

Obama may be just the voice that may impact positively in many African nations by promoting democracy and encouraging press & other freedoms. Obamas strong voice against corruption and tribalism was probably the best message he left in his visit to Africa.

"As an Active duty Soldier, just back from IRAQ, It is sad that while young soldiers are dying for the protection of the so-called, American way of life, We have ignorant people who have so much freedom as to argue about absolutely "nothing"!...........
But hey, This is America....SERVE or SHUT UP."

CSM,

Several points to make re. your attack on free speech.

1. Serve or shut up? Not in the Constitution. Everyone gets to have their say, like it or not. Don't like it? Move to another country. Just not liberal Canada, Aus., UK, France, or other liberal democracies that protect free speech.

2. Maybe you think these people are arguing about 'nothing' because you are ignorant.

3. Arguing over stupid stuff is the new America. Most Americans care more about the next 'Idol' than how many GI's are dying in Iraq/Afg. Think not? If it were not so there would be marching in the streets on your behalf. You are aware that BushCorp lied us into that sh%# storm?

4. You don't know who in this post has served or not served.

5. Get a grip. We are a free people, (I think) and will say what we want, when we want.

6. You statement proves the old adage; "The last refuge of the scoundrel is patriotism."

7. Lot's of combat vets are a-ho%$ and moral cowards. Look at the Swift Boat idiots. You are not complaining about their lies about a COMBAT VET.

8. I like Obama, but defend Bill, JD, Bruce, the rest, their right to slam him. It's the American way.

Intellectual, articulate, smart, modest and love for all despite race/color & cultural or tribalistic-is Senator Obama-preaching equal for all. He is campaigning for Freedom of Press/speech, movement and creating awareness that the world needs to be a better place: It is this same hatred that is dividing the world, it is this same conflicts that other countries are suffering due to our own misconception, it is this same leaders that we look up to that at times lead us astray-then so many people get killed due to wars, hunger and using religious beliefs for their own selfish ends. Senator Obamas's speeches leave a lot to think about and succumb to and make you reflect at your inner-self and think of doing good for a better tomorrow. His visit to Africa whether for his own visit for the love of his homeland or for politics sure will bring hope to many. He is someone who believes in people and he knows this many people suffering in Africa can seek help and also preaching that this same people can change the world. In Kenya, there is so much corruption and that it’s no secret that it needs to be cleaned up in order to have a better life. Kenya is a beautiful country and progress is at stake due to tribalism-people are divided. Voting is a process where mostly people believe in voting for their own tribe. It is this same issue that has made African countries not progress, it is this same division that Senator Obama is addressing to the African Nations not only Kenya. He will bring change and hope for many. There are good people out here who do advocate for all not forgetting others who are suffering out there and that as you can see Oprah has done good in South Africa-May the good Lord give them more blessings for their kind heart and that "Senator Obama" I do not mind you using my Tax money for the better in this world today. We pay so much taxes and we still do not see what or where its being used as most of the jobs are being outsourced to India. God Bless You abundantly with your family and keep the Good Work. You will make a difference to us if not all but I am sure that whatever good you do in this world you sure shall be rewarded. Your family is your family and that it’s good to know where you come from or visit when you can. You are a LEADER a true leader.

Methinks this so called Juanito suffers from some serious malaise called inferiority complex. Just for the record could you list your unembelished CV here and let us compare it with Senator Obama's.

Mull over that a little Mr.Juanito.

LEVYING OF FEES TO TV CREW ACCOMPANYING SENATOR OBAMA DONE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAW
The Government would like to clarify that the charges levied to the television crew that is accompanying American Senator Barack Obama, on his arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Thursday evening of August 24, 2006, are requirements of Kenyan Law.

The crew was charged fees as stipulated by Section 143 of the Customs and Excise Act, as read together with Legal Notice Number 338 of 18th October, 1995.

This part of the law requires that all filming equipment that enters the country (whether for journalism, other television productions or motion picture), be charged a non-refundable fee of one percent (1%) of the value of the equipment or Kshs. 30,000, whichever is lower.

These charges are levied regardless of whether the equipment is to be used for a short period or is to be later shipped out of the country. Crews can opt to have clearing agents assist them with the paperwork. The agents in turn charge their own fees.

The allegations that there was corruption involved in the clearing of the television production equipment of the CBS2 crew are totally unfounded.

Investigations by Government have established that during the levying of fees, no Kenyan Government official or agent working at the airport asked for a bribe or any side facilitation payments. The only monies asked for were those stipulated by law. Official Government Customs receipts were issued to the crew to cater for the customs charges.

Because the crew had arranged before arriving in Kenya to be assisted by a private agent, then, any payments made to the agent were as per the non-government arrangement between the crew and the agent.

Every country has a right to charge customs fees and levies as per its laws. Charging of such fees does not amount to corruption. The paperwork involved may be inconveniencing but that is part of the procedures that need to be followed to ensure accountability and transparency. The crew accompanying Senator Obama was required to fulfill regulations that every other foreign crew undergoes on arrival in Kenya.

DR. ALFRED N. MUTUA,
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY & GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON

August 26, 2006

Sorry "Dr" Mutua Ng'ang'a that is blatantly false. As a Kenyan, I happen to be quite conversant with the law pertaining to importation of electronics into the country having travelled to Kenya frequently during the last twenty years or so. I was in Kenya just three months ago, having imported into the country several state-of-the- art audio-visual electronic equipment. Why was this so-called law not applied to me? Why was I exempted? Do you apply a double standard for supposedly rich gullible Americans? Is it the policy of the Kenyan government to fleece and shakedown visitors and tourists? Personally, I know loads of foreigners and visitors who have been fleeced by Kenyan government authorities at the Nairobi international Airport.

It is sad that you and your government are running an outfit that is a little step above a mafioso; extortion and rampant corruption are what Kenya is most renown for.

You can rest assured that the government you represent is ranked in the top echelons in one particular area-- corruption. According to the 2005-06 Transparency International Rankings of the World's Most Corrupt Countries, Kenya was ranked in the top ten, the equivalent of a ranking in the 95th percentile in terms of global corruption.

Something worth corking-out the champagne for and celebrating, don't you think so, "Dr" Mutua?

Is your government ethically challenged?

I SUPPORT BARAK OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT, PRESIDENT OF KENYA. Maybe then he can have some real influence on the country rather than just giving speeches and planting trees.

okay, i know this is way old and its lame to post something so far after the fact... but that guy bill, man what an idiot... how much do you think obama's trip to africa cost the taxpayers if they did pay for it? a couple thousand dollars? maybe thats a lot in missouri, but im pretty sure the citizens of illinois can handle the nickel apiece that it cost them for obama to go to africa.