Kenya's diplomatic stance was once again under scrutiny following its decision to support the recent signing of a charter to establish a parallel government in Sudan by the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The charter, which was signed in Kenya, has sparked mixed reactions with the latest criticism coming from Kenya's key Middle Eastern trading partners; Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
In separate press statements issued over the weekend, both nations distanced themselves from the formation of a parallel government and strongly condemned the initiative.
Their statements have raised concerns about the potential impact on diplomatic and trade relations with Nairobi, where the charter was signed.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in their statement, called for a rejection of any ''illegitimate steps'' taken outside the Republic of Sudan to establish a parallel government. President William Ruto and State House Economic Advisor Moses Kuria during a meeting with the Arkan Investment Group led by Mohamed Bin Tawar (in brown apparel) at State House Nairobi on June 3, 2023.