As nationwide protests on Wednesday disrupted business operations, the government found itself navigating both domestic unrest and growing international concerns.

The government pushed back against criticism from Western embassies, which expressed alarm over the Kenyan police’s responses to the unrest.

On June 24, the ambassadors and high commissioners of Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland, Australia, Switzerland, Norway, Canada, the UK, the US, Sweden, and Finland in Kenya released a joint statement. They stated that the use of plain clothed law enforcement officers in unmarked vehicles is illegal, as per a High Court ruling, and called for full compliance.

Additionally, the embassies took issue with the deployment of ‘goons’ to disrupt peaceful gatherings. This was witnessed in previous protests in Nairobi over the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang’ in police custody, where youth groups armed with clubs confronted protesters and robbed passers-by.

The initial government reaction came from the National Assembly, even though it typically does not address remarks made by ambassadors and high commissioners on political matters.

A letter signed by Nelson Koech, Chairperson of the Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee of the National Assembly, stated that Kenya remains firmly committed to upholding democratic principles. These principles include the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, as enshrined in the Constitution.

“We are, however, concerned by the growing trend of external actors commenting on Kenya’s internal governance with tones that, while perhaps well-intentioned, risk eroding the principle of sovereign equality that underpins diplomatic relations,” the letter reads in part.

According to the letter, Kenya welcomes dialogue, not echo chambers. And, in reference to ‘hired goons’ and covert operations, the embassies’ joint statement treads dangerously close to adopting the language of activists and partisan actors. 

Koech noted that Kenya continues to embrace its vibrant democracy, not at the urging of others, but by the will of its people. “We invite all diplomatic partners to walk with us in mutual respect, upholding the core values of the Vienna Convention: non-interference, constructive engagement, and sovereign dignity. Kenya is not a subject of external surveillance. Kenya is a nation rising, secure in its democracy and firm in its partnerships.”

Later, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs reacted through a letter known in diplomatic circles as a ‘note verbale’, echoing Koech’s message and promising lawful policing. However, the ministry cautioned against narratives pushed by outsiders.

“The rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression remain a protected pillar of Kenya’s constitutional democracy. Kenya’s democracy, however, does not operate in a vacuum. The responsibility to protect the public, prevent violence, and safeguard the peace lies squarely with the State and must be exercised with restraint, legality, and care,” said the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs. 

While the ministry acknowledged the concerns raised about policing, the government emphasised that violations are addressed through established institutions, including independent commissions, Parliament, and the Judiciary.

The ministry added that the country remains a willing partner in the global democratic project. It, however, advised against expressions that are overly prescriptive and insensitive to the complex national and international environment in which States operate, particularly the perilous challenges that democracies face.  “At times such as these, narratives purveyed as truth must be vigilantly tested for objectivity and fairness lest they serve to perpetuate political polarisation and harm social fabric.”

It added that all diplomatic partnerships flourish best in mutual respect, open channels, and recognition of each other’s unique governance contexts and challenges, in line with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

Kenya’s Foreign Policy

The country’s foreign policy has undergone a significant transformation since its independence. Over the years, Kenya’s foreign policy has evolved in response to geopolitical shifts, technological advancements, regional developments, national priorities, and emerging challenges.

According to the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, the foreign policy doctrine has been defined by its dedication to good neighbourliness, regionalism, Pan-Africanism, economic and commercial dynamics, and bilateral and multilateral relations.

These principles have shaped Kenya’s international engagement, enabling the country to navigate complex global developments while advancing its national interests and promoting both regional and global stability.