Published January 22, 2025
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By

Prof. Peter Ndiang’ui

Fort Myers, Florida, USA

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has demonstrated an alarming disregard for the

Kenyan diaspora and his recent attack on diaspora members exposes his inability to effectively

represent their interests as Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs. His comments, which

shift blame for Kenya’s tarnished image onto the very people who contribute significantly to the

nation’s economy through their remittances, underscore his failure to acknowledge and address

the pressing needs of Kenyans abroad. For these reasons, it is imperative that Musalia Mudavadi

resign from his position as Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs immediately.

The Kenyan diaspora has long been a vital support system for the country, not only through

remittances that fuel the economy but also in fostering international relationships, trade, and

diplomatic efforts. However, Mudavadi’s recent remarks show a complete disconnect from the

diaspora and its importance to the nation. His accusation that Kenyans abroad are tarnishing the

country’s image is misplaced and deeply insulting. By blaming the diaspora for speaking

out against his government’s mismanagement, Mudavadi has alienated a critical segment of the

Kenyan population and failed in his role to advocate for them and represent their concerns.

His attack on the diaspora further demonstrates a lack of understanding of the unique challenges

faced by Kenyans abroad. Many in the diaspora have expressed that Mudavadi does not

represent their interest—a sentiment that reflects a profound disillusionment with the current leadership.

The diaspora community deserves a representative who understands their struggles and priorities

and who works tirelessly to protect their interests. Musalia Mudavadi has proven time and again

that he is incapable of fulfilling this responsibility, which is integral to his position as the Cabinet

Secretary for Foreign Affairs.

The diaspora plays a crucial role in Kenya’s economy, contributing billions of shillings annually

in remittances. This vital financial support helps sustain families, fund education, and provide

healthcare for those back home. However, Mudavadi’s leadership, which is marked by disregard for the

concerns of the diaspora, risks causing further disillusionment. If this alienation continues, there

is a real danger that the diaspora may become less engaged, potentially reducing their financial

contributions, which would have a devastating impact on Kenya’s economy.

Furthermore, the role of the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs is not just to represent Kenya

to the world but to also represent the interests and well-being of Kenyans living abroad.

Mudavadi’s failure to connect with the diaspora and his tendency to deflect blame rather than

address real issues reflects a broader failure in diplomacy and international relations under his

watch. The diaspora deserves a leader who understands the importance of maintaining strong,

productive relationships between Kenya and its global community.

Musalia Mudavadi’s tenure as Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs has been marked by

ineffectiveness, insensitivity to the diaspora’s needs, and a lack of meaningful engagement with

key stakeholders. His leadership has not only compromised Kenya’s international standing but

also put the country’s relationships with its citizens abroad at risk. His resignation is necessary to

allow for a more competent and compassionate leadership that can rebuild trust with the diaspora

and ensure that their concerns are heard and addressed.

For the good of Kenya and its global community, it is time for Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia

Mudavadi to step down from the Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary position. The Kenyan

diaspora deserves a representative who will prioritize their interests and ensure their

contributions are recognized and respected. Only through such leadership can Kenya begin to

mend the fractured relationships with its citizens abroad and harness the full potential of its

global community.

If Prime Cabinet Secretary Mudavadi fails to resign voluntarily, he should be removed from his

position through the available mechanisms to ensure that Kenya’s foreign affairs are handled

with the seriousness, respect, and engagement that the diaspora and the nation at large deserve.

Sincerely,

Prof. Peter Ndiang’ui

Fort Myers, Florida, USA

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