In particular, I raised the case of Mr Timothy Maina Nderi, who has reportedly remained under house arrest for the past eight months without formal judicial charges,” Sing’Oei stated.
According to the PS, Kenya’s embassy officials in South Sudan have also been denied consular access despite repeated formal requests.
He added that access to detained citizens is important for ensuring their welfare and protecting their rights while abroad, something South Sudanese authorities have denied for over eight months now.
“I also expressed concern over the continued denial of consular access to officials from the Embassy of Kenya in Juba, despite repeated formal requests,” he added.
Although the PS did not reveal the circumstances behind the Kenyan’s detention, he stated that detention of such magnitude should only be imposed after formal judicial charges.
During the meeting, Kenya also raised concerns over the security situation facing Kenyan truck drivers operating in South Sudan.
The ministry cited reports of armed attacks, robbery, extortion, harassment, and intimidation along key transport routes, aimed at Kenyan drivers, after concerns were raised by the Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDDCA).
Sing’Oei highlighted the case of one Kenyan truck driver who was allegedly attacked by South Sudanese security personnel along the Juba–Nesitu Road and is currently hospitalised in critical condition.
He called on South Sudanese authorities to urgently address the concerns and ensure the safety, dignity, and rights of Kenyan nationals.
The move comes amid continued calls for stronger protection of Kenyan workers and traders operating in the region, where cross-border transport plays a key role in trade between the two countries.
