The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has openly opposed President William Ruto’s recent nomination of Judy Kiaria Nkumiri as Kenya’s Consul General to Goma, stressing that the move bypasses established diplomatic procedures. The objection was outlined in a statement by the Congolese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which emphasized that foreign consular appointments on its territory must first receive official approval.
Why is DRC objecting to Kenya’s nomination?
According to Kinshasa, Kenya’s announcement disregarded international law and long-standing diplomatic protocols. “The DRC recalls that the appointment of any head of a foreign consular post on its territory is subject to its prior approval and the issuance of the exequatur by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kinshasa,” the ministry stated. The Congolese government noted that the decision was particularly troubling given Goma’s current instability, where the M23 rebel group maintains what they call an “illegal occupation.”
How does the situation in Goma complicate the issue?
The DRC highlighted that the ongoing crisis in Goma involves serious human rights violations against civilians, as documented by recent United Nations reports. With this context, Kinshasa declared, “any announcement concerning the appointment of a consul in Goma is particularly inappropriate and cannot be considered valid without the consent of the Congolese authorities.” The government added that premature actions risk appearing to legitimize the rebel occupation, which could worsen perceptions and strain relations.
What is Kenya’s response to the DRC’s warning?
Kenya, however, maintains that its move was within proper procedure. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei described DRC’s objection as “premature,” clarifying that Nairobi would have sought approval after parliamentary vetting. “As per diplomatic practice, once the presidential nominee receives parliamentary approval, Kenya shall seek an agrément or consent of the Democratic Republic of Congo before the Counsel General reports to post. This reaction is unfortunately premature,” he explained.
Both governments now face the delicate task of balancing diplomatic sensitivities with regional stability. At a time when Kenya and DRC are central to peace and security initiatives in East and Central Africa, how this standoff is resolved will determine whether cooperation or confrontation shapes their bilateral ties.
By Lucky Anyanje