Wednesday, 30 April, 2025
Senate Committee engages Prime Cabinet Secretary on Foreign Policy and Diaspora Welfare
Parliament BuildingsTuesday, 29th April 2025
The Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations, led by Senator Fatuma Dullo (Isiolo) convened a meeting with Prime Cabinet Secretary (PCS) and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi. The agenda focused on outstanding legislative matters, potential collaborations and pressing concerns regarding Kenya's foreign policy execution and the welfare of its citizens abroad.
Senators began by expressing frustration over delays in the Ministry's engagement with parliamentary business. Senator Edwin Sifuna highlighted this, stating, "it is quite shocking that there have been whole sessions that have not had occasion to interact with the cabinet secretary responsible for foreign affairs," emphasizing the need for timely responses to pending parliamentary questions, some dating back several months.
Issues raised included delays in passport issuance, high visa fees for students, the repatriation of refugees and the worrying situations of Kenyans missing or mistreated abroad, particularly in the Middle East.
Concerns were also voiced about the lack of transparency in scholarship allocations and the criteria used, alongside questions regarding the appointment of non-career diplomats to foreign missions. Senators sought clarity on Kenya's foreign policy positions, particularly concerning conflicts like Taiwan and Palestine and the rationale behind hosting foreign negotiating groups in Nairobi.
In response, PCS Mudavadi acknowledged the committee's points, affirming, "having been a parliamentarian, I take parliamentary business very seriously where there have been lapses, we shall take care and take corrective measures." He committed to addressing the outstanding statements comprehensively. On specific issues, he clarified that passport issuance falls under the Interior Ministry but pledged better coordination. He supported transparency in scholarships, stating, "It is important that, we make public where scholarships have been offered."
PCS Mudavadi reiterated Kenya's adherence to the "One China Policy" and support for a "Two-State Solution" for Palestine. He outlined plans for a 70/30 ratio favouring career diplomats in foreign appointments and addressed mission underfunding challenges.
He also defended Kenya's role as a neutral mediator in regional conflicts. The PCS emphasized the upcoming public Sessional Paper on Foreign Policy, marking a shift towards greater transparency and parliamentary input in shaping Kenya's international engagement.