Wetang’ula reveals details of his meeting with Monica Juma as she takes up UN role
By Mustafa Juma, March 12, 2026National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has revealed details of his meeting with outgoing National Security Advisor Monica Juma as she prepares to take up a senior leadership position at the United Nations.
Taking to his official X account on Thursday, March 12, 2026, Wetang’ula said he held a productive engagement with Juma during which he congratulated her on her appointment as Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna.
Wetang’ula said the meeting offered an opportunity to wish the seasoned diplomat well as she transitions to the international role.
“Held a productive engagement with Amb. Dr. Monica Juma, the outgoing National Security Advisor. I took the opportunity to congratulate her on her appointment to the United Nations as Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and Director-General of the UN Office at Vienna,” Wetang’ula said.
Kenya’s representation
The Ford Kenya Party leader further noted that he had also encouraged her to continue representing Kenya and the wider African region with distinction as she undertakes her new responsibilities at the global body.
“I also encouraged her to continue representing Kenya and the wider region with distinction in the course of her new responsibilities,” Wetang’ula added.
The Speaker noted that he has previously worked closely with Juma during his tenure at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressing confidence in her leadership and diplomatic experience.
“Having worked closely with Amb. Monica, during my tenure at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, I have full confidence in her leadership and ability to excel in this role while further elevating Kenya’s profile on the global stage,” he said.
Monica Juma’s appointment
Her appointment came during the period when countries around the world marked International Women’s Day.
The announcement on the appointment of Juma was made on March 6, 2026, by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guteress, placing the Kenyan diplomat and security expert in charge of two key United Nations offices.
Juma will succeed Ghada Fathi Waly of Egypt, whose service the Secretary-General acknowledged.
The UN chief also thanked John Brandolino, who will continue serving as Acting Executive Director of UNODC and Acting Director-General of UNOV until Juma assumes office.