Daniel Otieno, Nairobi
The Kenyan government has strongly condemned the violent attack and looting of its embassy in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), by protesters opposing the ongoing conflict in Eastern DRC.
The mob also targeted the Ugandan embassy and was reportedly planning to storm the South African, U.S., and Belgian embassies.
The attacks caused significant damage to property and forced two Kenyan embassy staff members to seek refuge.
“This failure to intervene is seen as a breach of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, particularly Articles 22(2) and 29, which guarantee the inviolability of diplomatic premises and personnel and oblige host states to protect missions from intrusion and safeguard the safety of diplomatic agents,” ~ Mudavadi
These actions are being viewed as a violation of international law. Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, and the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs immediately contacted DRC’s Foreign Minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner. Wagner confirmed the incidents and assured that steps would be taken to restore order and protect diplomatic missions.
“We pointed out to the Foreign Minister of DRC that two of Kenya’s staff members had to escape and seek refuge elsewhere, despite the expectation that their safety and that of their families should be guaranteed by the DRC authorities as obligated by international law and provided for by Vienna
Convention on Diplomatic Relations,” said Mudavadi in a statement
Kenya expressed deep concern over the lack of action from DRC security forces, who allegedly stood by as the embassy was looted and destroyed.
“This failure to intervene is seen as a breach of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, particularly Articles 22(2) and 29, which guarantee the inviolability of diplomatic premises and personnel and oblige host states to protect missions from intrusion and safeguard the safety of diplomatic agents,” argued Mudavadi
The Kenya Kwanza government reminded the DRC of its responsibility under international law to prevent such attacks and protect foreign missions.
DRC’s Foreign Minister, Ms Wagner assured Kenya that the DRC is committed to international law and pledged compensation for the damages caused to the Kenyan embassy.
She also confirmed that measures are being taken to enhance the security of Kenyan staff and their families in Kinshasa.
This incident follows recent concerns raised by Kenyan President William Ruto regarding the conflict in Eastern DRC, where he called for an immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities.
Despite the attacks, Kenya reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic relations with the DRC and the broader region.
It emphasized the importance of working with regional and international partners to find peaceful solutions to the conflict in Eastern DRC.
“The Republic of Kenya wishes to affirm its continued partnership and commitment to working with the region and international actors in finding peaceful solutions to the conflict,” said Mudavadi
Kenyan citizens in conflict-affected areas have been advised to exercise caution as the government implements emergency measures to ensure their safety and well-being.
