Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has urged the international community not to judge Kenya too harshly regarding the recent incident involving the alleged abduction and deportation of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye. The controversy surrounding Besigye’s removal from Nairobi has raised concerns about Kenya’s role in handling foreign affairs, especially with its neighbors.
Besigye, who is facing charges in Uganda, was reportedly abducted in Nairobi and deported back to Uganda. The incident has sparked a debate on Kenya’s diplomatic stance, with some questioning whether the Kenyan government has been complicit in the actions of Uganda’s authorities. However, Musalia Mudavadi strongly denied any involvement in the abduction, insisting that the incident should not be seen as a reflection of Kenya’s foreign policy.
Mudavadi, speaking during a media briefing to mark 60 years of Kenya’s diplomatic relations, emphasized that Uganda remains a strong and important partner for Kenya. He stated, “We believe that the issues between us and Uganda, where there are any concerns, will be resolved diplomatically, and that is what we will do at all times.” He urged both the local and international communities to understand the complexities of diplomacy and not rush to conclusions.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary’s comments come on the heels of a similar incident involving four Turkish nationals who were abducted in Nairobi and deported earlier in the year. This pattern of abductions has raised concerns about the safety of foreign nationals in Kenya, and the potential for such actions to strain Kenya’s international relationships.
Mudavadi further stressed the importance of maintaining good relations with all countries, particularly those in the East African region. “We also believe that it is important that our friends and our visitors also appreciate that it’s important that we maintain good relations with all our partner states,” he remarked.
Kenya’s commitment to hosting refugees has also been a key aspect of its foreign policy. The country currently hosts over 800,000 refugees, primarily at Kakuma and Dadaab camps. Mudavadi reiterated Kenya’s role as a safe haven for those fleeing conflict and distress, stating that the government would continue to provide shelter to fellow Africans in need.
The remarks on foreign policy and international relations were made during a celebration of Kenya’s diplomatic history, marking 60 years since the country opened its first six diplomatic missions in 1964. These missions were located in strategic cities such as Peking (now Beijing), Moscow, London, Bonn, Cairo, and New York. Over the years, Kenya has significantly expanded its diplomatic presence, with 68 missions across the world. These missions are instrumental in advancing Kenya’s interests and building stronger international ties.
Mudavadi also discussed Kenya’s position on the upcoming leadership transitions at the African Development Bank (AfDB). With the current president, Akinwumi Adesina, scheduled to step down in 2025, Kenya has decided not to field a candidate for the presidency. Instead, Kenya will support candidates from other African nations, with the understanding that reciprocal support will be given to Raila Odinga’s bid for the position of African Union Commission chairman. Mudavadi urged Kenyans to cease any negative propaganda against Odinga, as it could harm his chances of success in this high-stakes campaign.
Looking back at Kenya’s diplomatic journey, Mudavadi highlighted the significant strides the country has made in the international arena. From a modest beginning with six missions, Kenya now boasts 68 diplomatic missions around the world. This expanded presence underscores Kenya’s growing role on the global stage and its continued commitment to maintaining strong, mutually beneficial relationships with its neighbors and international partners.
As Kenya celebrates its 60 years of diplomacy, Mudavadi’s words underscore the delicate balance the country seeks to maintain in its foreign policy. While the Besigye incident may have sparked controversy, the Kenyan government’s commitment to resolving such issues diplomatically remains steadfast.
