Legislators' enhanced interest in foreign policy is good for Kenya

The National Assembly during a past session. [File, Standard]

Parliament is in search of relevance in the making of foreign policy. This desire brought together MPs, irrespective of their political leaning - wantam/cousin or the tutam/kumi bila brake side - to learn how to be effective in foreign policy. Minority Deputy Whip in the National Assembly Mark Mwenje led the MPs in the search for a foreign policy role. Admitting that Parliament has minimal involvement in Kenya’s foreign policymaking, they appeared eager to learn from a few ‘facilitators’ led by former MP and ambassador Mutinda Mutiso. Other facilitators included lawyer Francis Khayundi and International Relations scholar Nicodemus Minde.

Mr Mutinda urged the MPs to develop diplomatic minds because they vet diplomats. While vetting those nominated for diplomatic positions, Mutinda stressed that MPs should examine a candidate’s ability to advance Kenya’s national interests through projection, promotion, and protection. In addition, he argued, that the MPs and the executive should develop good working relations as was the case during President Mwai Kibaki's time when "real consultation on any issue was a reality". Mr Kibaki achieved many things, he said, partly because he had a virtual open-door policy towards MPs irrespective of their party affiliation.