Kenya responds after uproar over his response to detention of Kenyans in Tanzania
Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi has defended the diplomatic approach the government used in addressing the detention of Kenyans in Tanzania.
Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi has defended the diplomatic approach the government used in addressing the detention of Kenyans in Tanzania.
In a statement dated Friday, May 23, Mudavadi revealed that he used existing diplomatic structures in dealing with the recent detention of Kenyans. Among those who were detained was Boniface Mwangi.
The CS added that he contacted his Tanzanian counterparts after the incidents in a move to seek the release of the Kenyans.
He expressed that his approach was the best as it safeguards the diplomatic and economic relations of the two countries.
In supporting his decisions, he gave statistics that ranked Tanzania as a major trade partner for Kenya. Therefore, maintaining good relations was beneficial for Kenya.
“The path to resolution lay not in confrontation, but in cooperation. Our engagement with Tanzania was guided by mutual respect, discretion and the shared understanding that there is a deep bond between our peoples,” he stated.
“Diplomacy works. It may seem slow, but it yields sustainable results and maintains the relationships vital to our nation’s well-being.”
Further, he cautioned Kenyans against extending the rights enjoyed in Kenya to other countries, noting that different countries have their customs and beliefs.
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“Kenya cherishes the freedom of expression enshrined in its Constitution, which is a pillar of our democracy, but at times, this freedom has been stretched to its limits. While we address this challenge from within our borders, we should not assume that how we engage in Kenya can be replicated outside our borders,” read the statement in part.
“Respect for our neighbours’ norms and laws is imperative, recognising our ability to engage respectfully on the regional and global stage as a strength, not a weakness.”
Mudavadi has, in recent days, come under sharp criticism following his approach in dealing with the detentions.
Some leaders, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, even wondered whether Mudavadi was the best individual to lead the foreign affairs docket.
“Our Minister for Foreign Affairs taking Tanzania’s side on the deportation of Kenyans is wild. Who put these people in power?” the Senator posed.
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