Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Korir Sing’Oei, has come out guns blazing in defense of the government’s move to arrest and repatriate 4 Turkish nationals back to their country.
Speaking during a Roundtable Discussion with the Civil Society on the Review of Foreign Policy. The PS noted that Kenya was right to heed the request by the government of Türkiye, guided by the founding principle of non-interference with the internal affairs of other states.
“Harbouring the subversive elements accused of undertaking activities detrimental to a friendly country posed both a diplomatic and humanitarian dilemma to Kenya,” the PS stated.
PS Sing’Oei highlighted that Türkiye remains a friendly nation to Kenya with the two countries having historical and strategic diplomatic ties; Türkiye has been a vital player in the East African region, particularly concerning peace and security.
“The repatriation, therefore, was not a departure from the humanitarian principle and ethos for persons fleeing conflict and persecution that Kenya strongly endorses, but a crucial balancing of interests for the bigger good,” affirmed Dr. Sing’Oei.
Additionally, assurances were sought from the government of the Republic of Türkiye that the four citizens would be treated with dignity consistent with national and international laws.
PS Sing’oei emphasized on the serious nature of assurances in diplomacy, which the Republic of Türkiye was obliged to honour.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on 21st October 2024 that Kenya had, on 18th October 2024, repatriated four Nationals of the Republic of Türkiye to their home country at the request of their government.
