Editor's Review

MP Amisi expressed concerns that such diplomatic moves could harm Kenya’s international standing.

Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has criticized President William Ruto after he officially recognized Kosovo as an independent state.

In a statement on Thursday, March 27, Amisi expressed concerns that such diplomatic moves could harm Kenya’s international standing.

The MP questioned the president’s foreign policy decisions, emphasizing that Kenya cannot afford to make enemies on the global stage.

"We don’t have a spare country. We want the best out of Kenya, and it is a collective responsibility of all citizens. Who advises our president on international relations? Kenya cannot afford to accumulate enemies across planet Earth," he stated.

Amisi further highlighted Kenya’s reliance on foreign investments, warning that reckless diplomatic decisions could have serious repercussions.

"We don't have natural resources; we are reliant on the global flow of income and foreign direct investment. Let’s stop some jokes," he added.

Ruto recognized Kosovo as an independent state on Wednesday, March 26 during a closed-door meeting at State House on Wednesday, March 26.

File image of William Ruto signing a letter recognizing Kosovo as an independent state

In a statement, former Kosovo President Behgjet Pacolli confirmed the signing of a recognition letter, described the meeting as a remarkable ceremony.

“17 years after Independence, in a remarkable and unforgettable ceremony, the Republic of Kenya – one of the most important countries in Africa – officially recognized the Republic of Kosovo as an independent and sovereign state!

“This recognition is not just a declaration – it is a great victory for the state of Kosovo, it is the voice of our freedom that is heard deep in the heart of Africa! Today, our state flag flies high proudly in Nairobi, and this is proof that Kosovo moves forward, strong and with dignity when it is worked and willed to," Pacolli said.

This decision marks the first recognition of Kosovo's sovereignty by any country in nearly five years since Israel did so in September 2020. 

Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, and while over 110 countries, including the United States, have recognized it, Serbia and its allies continue to oppose its statehood.

In response to Ruto's decision, Serbia threatened to take diplomatic and political measures against Kenya.

In a statement on Thursday, March 27, the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Kenya’s move, saying the decision violated international law and breached the terms of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia strongly condemns the decision of the Republic of Kenya to recognize the unilaterally declared independence of the so-called 'Kosovo'.

“Such an act constitutes a blatant violation of international law and a direct breach of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244, which unequivocally guarantees the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Serbia,” read the statement in part.