Kenya’s Foreign Ministry Addresses Complex Case of Nduta Macharia in Vietnam

Margaret Nduta Macharia’s death sentence in Vietnam has prompted calls for diplomatic intervention by her family and Kenyan lawmakers. The Foreign Affairs Ministry describes her case as complex, while efforts are underway to negotiate a stay of execution with Vietnamese officials. The execution is set for Monday evening, and the urgency for resolution is critical due to Vietnam’s strict drug laws.

The case of Margaret Nduta Macharia, sentenced to death in Vietnam for drug trafficking, has been described as “complex and difficult” by Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Ministry. As the execution date approaches, her family and members of the Kenyan Parliament are urging for diplomatic intervention to seek her repatriation or clemency ahead of the scheduled execution this Monday.

Margaret Nduta, 37, was convicted on March 6 in Ho Chi Minh City for smuggling over two kilograms of cocaine. Prominent figures, including Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, have advocated for discussions between Nairobi and Hanoi to facilitate her return to Kenya, even if it means serving her sentence there instead.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei has communicated with Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nguyen Minh Hang, expressing the concerns of the Kenyan public regarding Ms. Macharia’s impending execution. Sing’oei has requested a stay of execution to allow both countries the opportunity to negotiate a resolution for her case.

Although Kenya does not maintain a diplomatic mission in Vietnam, its embassy in Thailand is accredited to the country, managing the ongoing situation. The relationship between Kenya and Vietnam is cordial, though lacking in formal bilateral agreements, with the last official interaction occurring in 2020 when then-Vietnamese Prime Minister hosted a Kenyan envoy.

As the clock ticks, with Macharia’s final meal scheduled for 7:30 p.m. local time and execution set for 8:30 p.m., the urgency of the matter remains apparent. Vietnam is known for its stringent drug laws, enforcing the death penalty for significant quantities of narcotics.

In summary, the case of Margaret Nduta Macharia highlights the complexities surrounding international drug laws and diplomatic relations. With her execution imminent, there are ongoing efforts by Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Ministry to secure a reprieve for Nduta through diplomatic channels. It remains crucial for both countries to navigate this sensitive situation as time is running out for the accused.

Original Source: www.citizen.digital