This archive report was first published on 29 October 2019.
On October 29, 2019, Kenya was granted an eight-month extension to prepare for its maritime case against Somalia at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The extension was granted after Kenya's second and final request for a postponement, with the new dates set for June 8-12, 2020.
However, Somalia has expressed disappointment with the decision, viewing it as a temporary relief for Kenya's diplomatic efforts but ultimately not a lasting solution.
Kenya's approach in the case has been criticized for being tactical and lacking in good faith, with Somalia accusing Kenya of using diplomatic pressure and arm-twisting to avoid negotiations.
Kenya's Minister of Foreign Affairs has been accused of misleading the country on the maritime issue and owes an explanation to the public.
Experts have suggested that Kenya should negotiate in good faith and avoid using strong-arm diplomacy, which has failed to bring Somalia to the negotiating table.
Instead, Kenya should learn from Ethiopia's approach to negotiations with Somalia, which has resulted in the acquisition of four Somali ports through direct negotiation with the central government.
Ultimately, both Kenya and Somalia need to approach the negotiations from a strategic angle, focusing on consensus access and legitimacy to the larger outer continental shelf seas rather than being fixated on the disputed maritime area.
