Diplomatic tiff as DRC rejects Ruto’s appointment of Goma consul
By Kenneth Mwenda, August 16, 2025The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has formally rejected President William Ruto’s appointment of Judy Kiara Nkumiri as Kenya’s Consul General to Goma, deepening strains in diplomatic relations between Nairobi and Kinshasa.
In a statement released on Saturday, August 16, 2025, the Congolese Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared the move inconsistent with international law, citing the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of April 24, 1963. Kinshasa insisted that the appointment of any head of a foreign consular post requires prior approval and the issuance of an exequatur by the DRC government.
According to the ministry, Congo only learned of Nkumiri’s nomination through public announcements made in Nairobi rather than through official diplomatic communication. It warned that Kenya must strictly adhere to established procedures before such postings take effect.
“Kinshasa therefore expects to be formally approached by Nairobi through the established diplomatic channels, and will respond exclusively through the same channels, in accordance with rules of courtesy and mutual respect,” the statement read.
Goma appointment sparks tensions
The rejection also touched on security concerns in eastern Congo, where M23 rebels continue to occupy the strategic city of Goma in North Kivu Province. The Congolese government argued that announcing a consul in Goma without its consent risked conferring legitimacy on the rebel group’s control.
“In this context, any announcement relating to the nomination of a Consul General in Goma is particularly inappropriate and cannot be considered without the approval of the Congolese authorities,” Kinshasa emphasised.
The rebuff comes just a day after President Ruto unveiled a wide-ranging redeployment of ambassadors, high commissioners, and consuls across Kenya’s foreign service. While the reshuffle sought to align Kenya’s diplomatic corps with his administration’s agenda, the DRC’s firm rejection highlights the fragility of relations between the two countries.
Kenya, once celebrated for mediating peace efforts in eastern Congo, now faces accusations from Kinshasa of undermining Congolese sovereignty. President Félix Tshisekedi’s government has also previously declined to accredit Kenya’s envoy to Kinshasa, reflecting ongoing unease.
Despite the sharp response, the Congolese ministry reaffirmed its willingness to maintain constructive ties with Nairobi, provided engagements are grounded in mutual respect and respect for international conventions.