The Kenyan Foreign Ministry emphasizes mutual respect in diplomacy after Western missions comment on planned protests. While endorsing citizens’ rights to assembly, they warn against foreign narratives that may escalate tensions. The Ministry insists on its commitment to democracy, lawfulness, and collaboration with international partners.
The Kenyan Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs is emphasizing the significance of mutual respect in diplomatic engagements. This comes after a joint statement from twelve Western embassies in Nairobi concerning planned demonstrations in the country on June 25. The Ministry strongly affirmed that while “the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression remain protected pillars of Kenya’s constitutional democracy,” they also highlighted that “Kenya’s democracy does not operate in a vacuum.”
While acknowledging some concerns regarding policing methods during protests, the Ministry, headed by Musalia Mudavadi, reassured international partners that any proven violations would be addressed through independent bodies, including the country’s judicial and parliamentary systems. They cautioned, however, that international commentary on local issues should avoid narratives that might increase tensions or weaken state institutions.
“Kenya remains a willing partner in the global democratic project,” the Ministry stated, urging caution regarding comments that may seem overly prescriptive and fail to acknowledge the complex national and global situations affecting democracies today. They recognized the delicate challenges faced by democracies worldwide.
The Ministry further highlighted that successful diplomatic relations hinge on “mutual respect,” effective communication, and recognizing each nation’s distinct governance challenges, in line with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Maintaining public order and ensuring the protection of citizens is fundamentally the responsibility of the state, and this duty should be executed with restraint and legality.
Supportively, Dr. Korir Sing’oei, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, added that democratic protests must be safeguarded. However, he stressed that any efforts to exploit such protests for unconstitutional aims should be firmly condemned. “Kenya’s stability is paramount,” he said. The Ministry reiterated its dedication to fostering collaboration with foreign diplomatic missions in Kenya, grounded in respect, objectivity, and alignment in values.
Kenya is reinforcing its stance on mutual respect and sensitivity in diplomacy, especially in light of recent demonstrations. The Foreign Ministry asserts its commitment to uphold democratic freedoms while ensuring public order and stability. Open channels of communication and an understanding of each nation’s governance contexts are essential for ongoing diplomatic relations with international partners.
Original Source: www.kbc.co.ke