DRC protests Kenya’s nomination of new Consul General to Goma
The Democratic Republic of Congo has objected to Kenya’s nomination of a new Consul General to Goma, saying the move was made without prior consultation as required under international law.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has raised objections over President William Ruto’s nomination of a new Consul General to Goma.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Congolese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reminded Kenya that, in accordance with international law and diplomatic norms, any appointment of a foreign consular chief on Congolese territory must first be subject to consultation.
“The DRC recalls that the appointment of any head of a foreign consular post on its territory is subject to its prior approval and the issuance of the exequatur by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kinshasa,” the statement read.
Kinshasa criticized the announcement as untimely, particularly since Goma is still under what it called the “illegal occupation” of the M23 rebel group. According to the DRC government, the area remains affected by serious human rights abuses against civilians, as documented in recent reports by the United Nations.
“In this context, any announcement concerning the appointment of a consul in Goma is particularly inappropriate and cannot be considered valid without the consent of the Congolese authorities,” the statement added.
The Congolese authorities emphasized the importance of cautious communication to avoid any suggestion of legitimizing the current occupation, while reiterating their commitment to maintaining positive bilateral ties with Kenya.
The Ministry further warned that moving ahead with the appointments could escalate diplomatic tensions between the two countries, at a time when both are playing crucial roles in promoting peace and security in the region.
Responding to the statement, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei called the DRC’s reaction “premature,” explaining that Kenya intended to seek approval after parliamentary endorsement of the nominee.
“As per diplomatic practice, once the presidential nominee receives parliamentary approval, Kenya shall seek an agrément or consent of the Democratic Republic of Congo before the Consul General reports to post. This reaction is unfortunately premature,” said Sing’Oei.