Kenya has defended its recent diplomatic nominations after the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) raised concerns over the process of appointing a new Consul-General to Goma. Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi explained that President William Ruto’s redeployment of envoys to 20 global postings, including Goma, was consistent with the Constitution and international protocol.
Why Did DRC Object to Kenya’s Appointment?
The DRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs had questioned Nairobi’s move, citing lack of prior consultations. In response, Mudavadi clarified that presidential nominations alone are not final appointments. “Most significantly, the presidential nomination does not in itself constitute a diplomatic posting,” he stated. He outlined that once nominees receive parliamentary approval, Kenya will formally seek Agrément or acceptance from host states, followed by the issuance of an Exequatur by the DRC before the Consul-General assumes official duties.
What Is Kenya’s Diplomatic Position?
Mudavadi assured that the nominations, currently under review by the National Assembly, comply with Article 132 (2) of the Constitution and the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act. He emphasized that the foreign service reshuffle is aimed at improving efficiency and service delivery in line with the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). “The objective is not driven by adverse geopolitics nor intended to undermine ongoing regional peace efforts or the territorial integrity and sovereignty of any state,” he said.
How Are Kenya and DRC Strengthening Relations?
Mudavadi disclosed that he had engaged in talks with his DRC counterpart, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, to address concerns directly. Kenya and DRC have enjoyed diplomatic ties since 1963, with missions established in Kinshasa, Mombasa, and Goma. Mudavadi reaffirmed the importance of the relationship, stating: “May I reiterate our commitment to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC. Kenya and DRC are strategic partners in several areas, including trade, regional economic integration, and security.”
The statement underscores Kenya’s commitment to ongoing peace efforts in the DRC, including the joint EAC-SADC-AU initiative, and highlights the enduring partnership between the two nations.
By Lucky Anyanje