Ministry Clarifies PS Njogu Didn’t Decline KTN Interview on Iran and Middle East Crisis

Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has denied claims that Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu declined to take part in a televised discussion on the Middle East crisis, following promotional material circulated by Kenya Television Network (KTN).

In a statement issued on Thursday, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei said suggestions that Njogu had tried to mislead the public were unfounded. He confirmed that an interview had been considered but noted that media appearances involving government officials often change in format, timing or participation. 

“Any suggestion that there was an intention to mislead the public is incorrect,” he said, adding that the ministry values constructive relations with the press.

Njogu had earlier criticised KTN for distributing a poster indicating that she would join the ambassadors of Iran and Israel for a panel discussion. She said she had not agreed to appear in such a format and described the broadcaster’s promotion as “a clear misrepresentation” and “unacceptable”. Her response reflected the sensitivity surrounding the Middle East conflict and Kenya’s diplomatic stance on the issue.

KTN later explained that the poster was meant to highlight guests scheduled to appear across its programmes, and that the ambassadors would be interviewed separately. The Standard Group, which owns KTN, said Njogu had initially agreed to a phone interview during the evening news bulletin, although the appearance did not take place.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said its immediate focus remains the safety of Kenyan citizens abroad, particularly in regions facing geopolitical instability. Sing’oei said the government is closely monitoring developments and maintaining contact with Kenya’s diplomatic missions overseas. He added that the State Department for Diaspora Affairs continues to coordinate support for Kenyans affected by unrest or conflict.