Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has sought to reassure Parliament and the public after a proposed amendment to the United States’ defense legislation cast doubts over the future of Nairobi’s non-NATO ally designation.
Addressing the National Assembly Committee on Regional Integration, Mudavadi dismissed the development as part of a routine legislative process within the US Congress, saying it should not be misinterpreted as a policy shift by Washington.
“The amendment is not an executive order. It is a proposal within the legislative arm of government and must be seen within that institutional context,” he said. “Our relations with the United States remain strong, anchored in mutual respect and shared global interests.”
The remarks come after a bipartisan group of US Senators introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) seeking a reassessment of Kenya’s current status. The proposed review followed concerns raised by US lawmakers on human rights and governance issues, especially in light of the Kenyan government’s recent handling of public protests.
Mudavadi also used the platform to clarify Kenya’s position on regional issues, including long-standing trade restrictions affecting Kenyan traders in Tanzania and the security standoff around Migingo Island on Lake Victoria.
“We remain committed to diplomacy and dialogue in all our engagements, particularly with our neighbours,” he said.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary further affirmed Kenya’s sovereign standing, urging citizens to carry their national identity with pride.
“Kenya is an independent and dignified state. We are not beholden to any foreign interest. Our partnerships are voluntary and respectful,” he added.
