This archive report was first published on 14 November 2019.
On November 14, 2019, the High Court in Nairobi dismissed a petition filed by Kenya's ambassador nominee to South Korea, Mwende Mwinzi, challenging the National Assembly's decision to suspend her appointment until she formally denounces her American citizenship.
Justice James Makau ruled that it was premature to make a decision on Mwinzi's dual citizenship, stating that the Republic of Kenya had yet to formally make the appointment on the advice of the National Assembly.
"The National Assembly approved the petitioner's nomination on condition that she renounces her US citizenship. The petitioners did not await the President's appointment or dismissal but proceeded to file the present petition," Justice Makau stated.
He further stated, "I have no alternative but to dismiss the petition as premature so as to allow the process of approval and appointment to be completed."
Mwinzi was nominated by President Uhuru Kenyatta for the South Korean post in May 2019 but has not taken up her position.
