City Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has sparked debate over a new defence cooperation agreement between Kenya and France, warning that French soldiers could operate in the country without facing Kenyan courts.
The National Assembly is seeking public input on the pact before ratification. Njiru claims the deal could grant French troops “diplomatic-style” privileges under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961).
“This means our courts will have no jurisdiction over them,” he said in a statement on X.
The convention normally protects diplomats from arrest, detention, or civil lawsuits while also safeguarding mission property.
Extending similar protections to foreign military personnel, Njiru says, raises serious legal questions for Kenya.
The government argues the deal will strengthen Kenya’s military ties with France, covering joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and logistical support.
But Njiru insists the public and parliament must fully understand the implications before giving approval.
The Ministry of Defence has not yet responded directly to Njiru’s claims.
Meanwhile, the consultation period allows Kenyans and civil society groups to weigh in, making this one of the most watched legal and defence discussions in recent years.
With foreign troops potentially shielded from local law, the debate has put Kenya’s legal oversight and international agreements under the spotlight.
Njiru’s warning comes as the country grapples with balancing national sovereignty and international partnerships.