Nelson Koech, the head of the National Assemblys Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee, has told foreign offices to not say things that seem to mess with Kenya’s own matters. He spoke in the wake of protests all over the nation on June 25.
Koech was responding to a joint statement from some ambassadors and high officials that came out on the same day. He backed Kenyas strong hold on democratic ways, like the rights to hold peaceful rallies and speak freely. Yet, he was critical about the tone and words used by the diplomats.
“In referring to ‘hired goons’ and covert operations, the joint statement treads dangerously close to adopting the language of activists and partisan actors. Kenya welcomes dialogue, not echo chambers,” he asserted.
He also showed worry about a troubling trend: world figures speaking on how Kenya runs its things in ways that might mean well but step on the idea of equal rights in world talks.
Koech made it clear that while Kenya likes working together with other nations, it looks for the same respect and non-interference in domestic matters.
“Security operations by the State are guided by the rule of law and are subject to oversight by our Judiciary, Parliament, and independent commissions,” he noted.
Koech again said that the government’s main job is to keep its people safe, keep order, and hold up the nation’s stability, especially when peaceful protests might be used wrongly by lawbreakers.
He asked foreign offices to see this role, pointing out that even though Kenya is for the right to protest, the State also needs to act strong to stop disorder and make sure everyone is safe.
“We invite all diplomatic partners to engage with us in mutual respect, upholding the core values of the Vienna Convention: non-interference, constructive engagement, and sovereign dignity,” he stated.
“Kenya is not a subject of external surveillance. Kenya is a nation rising, secure in its democracy and firm in its partnerships,” he said.
