MP Koech warns against foreign overreach

The Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, Nelson Koech, has cautioned foreign diplomatic missions against making statements that appear to interfere with Kenya’s internal affairs, following the public protests on June 25.

In response to a joint statement issued by ambassadors and high commissioners on June 25, 2025, Koech reaffirmed Kenya’s strong commitment to democratic ideals, including the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression as guaranteed by the Constitution. He, particularly, took issue with the language used in the diplomatic statement.

“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.

Koech expressed concern about the “growing trend of external actors commenting on Kenya’s internal governance in tones that, while perhaps well-intentioned, risk eroding the principle of sovereign equality that underpins diplomatic relations.”

“Security operations by the State are guided by the rule of law and are subject to oversight by our Judiciary, Parliament, and independent commissions,” Koech stated.

Amid the protests, the legislator reiterated that the State also has an obligation to protect citizens, maintain public order, and ensure national stability—especially in instances where civic protests risk being hijacked by criminal elements. Koech stressed that foreign missions should recognize this fact.

“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 remarked