Political analyst Fwamba N Fwamba has defended Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi following a report by the Standard newspaper that labeled him a “weak diplomat.”
The newspaper highlighted several incidents affecting Kenyans in Tanzania, including the abduction of activist Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, the arrest of other Kenyan citizens, and the death of a Kenyan teacher during recent chaotic elections.
These developments sparked questions about the government’s response and the visibility of its diplomatic engagements.
Speaking on TV47 on Thursday, Fwamba dismissed claims that Mudavadi lacks diplomatic strength.
He argued that effective diplomacy often takes place behind closed doors, where sensitive negotiations cannot be made public.
“It is unfair to say that Mudavadi is 'weak-kneed.' Diplomacy is about relating in a diplomatic manner, and many things happen behind closed diplomatic doors that are not necessarily declared in public,” Fwamba said.
He noted that the Kenyan government, under Mudavadi’s oversight, was actively involved in negotiations to ensure the safe release of Njagi and Oyoo.
According to Fwamba, these behind-the-scenes efforts are critical to protecting citizens abroad and achieving results that may not be immediately visible to the public.
The criticism against Mudavadi reflects broader debates in Kenya about how the Foreign Affairs ministry manages cross-border citizen issues.
While some critics call for greater public visibility, supporters maintain that discreet diplomacy is often more effective, particularly in sensitive situations such as detentions or political unrest in neighboring countries.
Kenya maintains a significant diaspora in Tanzania, with thousands crossing the border for trade, employment, and education.
Incidents involving Kenyans abroad often trigger public concern, making the role of diplomatic channels crucial in ensuring safety and legal protection.