Muturi raises sovereignty concerns over Kenya–France defence pact

In a statement issued Sunday, Muturi criticised the government for advancing the agreement without what he termed adequate public participation, particularly in areas likely to be directly affected.

He argued that any deal allowing foreign military personnel to operate in Kenya should involve prior consultation with local communities, as required under the Constitution.

“Any agreement that contemplates the presence of foreign military personnel on Kenyan soil, with direct implications on land, security, and livelihoods, demands prior, meaningful, and verifiable consultation with affected communities,” Muturi said.

The former National Assembly Speaker also questioned reported provisions that could grant foreign troops immunity from Kenyan law, warning that such clauses would undermine national sovereignty and the rule of law.

“Granting foreign troops legal protections that may shield them from the jurisdiction of Kenyan courts is a direct affront to our sovereignty,” he said.

Muturi further cautioned against fast-tracking the agreement through Parliament, saying legislators must be given sufficient time to review and debate its contents. He argued that Parliament should exercise oversight rather than endorse executive decisions without scrutiny.

He acknowledged the role of international security partnerships but maintained they should not override constitutional safeguards or citizens’ rights.

Muturi called for the suspension of the agreement’s ratification process until its terms are made public, broader consultations are conducted, and any provisions deemed inconsistent with the Constitution are addressed.