A major diplomatic milestone has been achieved for Kenya as Margaret Nduta, a Kenyan citizen previously on death row in Vietnam, has had her sentence commuted to life imprisonment. The development, confirmed by Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu, underscores the importance of diplomacy and compliance with foreign laws.
Nduta’s reprieve came during a court session this week at Vietnam’s Supreme People’s Court, where intense diplomatic efforts by the Kenyan government proved instrumental. PS Njogu hailed the ruling as a life-saving intervention and emphasized the critical need for Kenyans living, working, or travelling abroad to respect the legal systems of their host countries.
“We remind all Kenyans travelling abroad to respect and comply with the laws and regulations of their host countries, to remain vigilant, and avoid involvement with any illegal activities that will put them in conflict with the law,” Njogu said.
The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs credited sustained government engagement and the support of Kenya’s Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand, for the positive outcome. The embassy provided both consular assistance and legal support throughout the case.
PS Njogu also praised the Kenyan diaspora in the ASEAN region for their solidarity. Several members attended the court hearing, showing moral support to Nduta during the emotionally charged proceedings.
“The Government of Kenya extends its gratitude to all those involved, particularly the Kenya Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand, and all well-wishers for the support and legal counsel,” Njogu added.
This case marks Kenya’s second major diplomatic victory in recent days. It follows the government’s successful intervention that led to the release of Stephen Munyakho from death row in Saudi Arabia. These cases highlight the risks some Kenyans face abroad and the vital role of government support and international diplomacy.
The Ministry has reiterated its commitment to protecting Kenyans overseas while calling for greater personal responsibility. The government continues to stress that while it stands ready to support its citizens, prevention through lawful conduct remains the best safeguard.
As Kenya celebrates these diplomatic wins, the message remains clear: respect for foreign laws is not optional it is essential.
