Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has raised concerns over the proposed Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) between Kenya and France.
In a statement issued on Sunday evening, April 26, the Democratic Party leader said the proposed pact raises significant constitutional and sovereignty issues that cannot be overlooked.
Muturi expressed firm opposition to the agreement, arguing that in its current form, it presents legal and constitutional challenges.
Justin Muturi raises concerns over Kenya–France security cooperation. Photo: Courtesy.
He further maintained that any arrangement allowing the presence of foreign military forces in Kenya must be subjected to public participation in accordance with the Constitution.
Muturi also raised concerns over reported immunity provisions within the proposed agreement, describing them as deeply troubling.
He warned that granting French troops immunity from Kenyan laws would undermine national sovereignty and weaken the rule of law.
Muturi further cautioned against efforts to fast-track the agreement without adhering to full parliamentary procedures.
He emphasized that while security cooperation is important, it should not come at the expense of constitutional order, national dignity, or the rights of citizens, adding that any agreement lacking transparency, accountability, and public involvement would be unacceptable.
The former CS called for the immediate suspension of the agreement and its ratification process until all terms are fully disclosed and comprehensive public participation is undertaken.
The Kenya–France defence pact outlines a five-year framework for military cooperation between Kenya and France, with an option for automatic renewal once.
The development comes ahead of the 2026 Africa–France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth Summit, set to take place in Nairobi on May 11–12, 2026.
The summit will focus on climate change, environmental challenges, and reforms to the financial system.
