NAIROBI — Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has assured Kenya’s diplomatic partners that the country remains grounded in constitutional governance and strong public institutions. Speaking at the French Embassy during the 145th Bastille Day celebration on Monday, Mudavadi emphasized Kenya’s commitment to democracy, peace, and investment stability.
“The Government of Kenya is anchored in the Constitution and guided by the rule of law. Our commitment is unwavering,” Mudavadi said.
His remarks come in the wake of national unrest during the June 25 and July 7 protests, which resulted in multiple deaths. Mudavadi acknowledged the events but stressed that they had reinforced the government’s resolve to protect constitutional freedoms while maintaining public order.
“We will continue to uphold the right to peaceful assembly, as guaranteed under Article 37 of the Constitution,” he said. “But those rights must be exercised peacefully and without violence. We do not want to lose any more lives.”
Musalia Mudavadi, who also oversees Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, said Kenya remains an attractive destination for foreign investment due to its political stability and consistent observance of democratic principles. He pointed to the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) as proof of the country’s dedication to transparent governance.
Referencing the 2010 Constitution, which was passed with more than 70% public support, Mudavadi noted that Kenya will not bend to populist pressures at the expense of the rule of law. “We respect the will of the people, not populist sentiments,” he stated.
During the event, which was hosted by French Ambassador Arnaud Suquet, Mudavadi praised the longstanding relationship between Kenya and France. He highlighted ongoing bilateral cooperation in infrastructure, energy, education, trade, culture, and regional diplomacy.
“France has stood with us, and we value their role in Kenya’s development story,” Mudavadi said.
He announced that Kenya and France will co-host the Africa–France Summit in Nairobi in 2026 the first time the summit will be held in a non-Francophone African nation. Mudavadi said preparations are already underway, with support from senior French officials.
“This milestone reflects France’s confidence in Kenya’s leadership in shaping Africa’s economic future,” he said.
Ambassador Suquet confirmed that France has supported over 150 development projects in Kenya since 2015, totaling approximately €1.8 billion. He pointed to the planned Science and Engineering Complex at the University of Nairobi as a symbol of the growing partnership. “We are backing projects that create opportunity, especially for youth and women,” Suquet said.
The French envoy also reiterated France’s support for peace and security efforts in the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes Region, including contributions to United Nations and African Union peace missions.
Mudavadi concluded by calling on global partners to view Kenya as a reliable ally rooted in democratic values and regional stability. “Our future is tied to cooperation, dialogue, and respect for national and international law,” he said.
The event drew senior diplomats, government officials, and development partners, signaling the importance of Kenya-France ties at a time of global realignments and regional uncertainty.
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