Report Of The Dc On Defence, Intelligence And Foreign Relations On The Approval Hearing Of Dr. Julius Mbijiwe As Ambassador To V

THENATIONALASSEMBLY

THIRTEENTHPARLIAMENT-FIFTHSESSION-2026 DEPARTMENTALCOMMITTEEONDEFENCE,INTELLIGENCEANDFOREIGN RELATIONS

REPORTON:

APPROVALHEARINGOFDR.JULIUSMURORIMBIJIWE,Ph.D.,FOR APPOINTMENTASAMBASSADORTOVATICAN,THEHOLYSEE

CLERK'SCHAMBERS

DIRECTORATEOFDEPARTMENTALCOMMITTEES

PARLIAMENTBUILDINGS

NAIROBI

APRIL,2026

TABLEOFCONTENTS

| LISTOFABBREVIATIONSANDACRONYMS | 3 | |------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----| | LISTOFANNEXURES | 4 | | CHAIRPERSON'SFOREWORD | 5 | | EXECUTIVESUMMARY | 7 | | 1.0PREFACE | 8 | | 1.1 Introduction | 8 | | 1.2EstablishmentandMandateoftheCommittee | 8 | | 1.3 Committee Subjects | 8 | | 1.4 Committee Membership | 9 | | 1.5CommitteeSecretariat | 10 | | 2.0BACKGROUND | 11 | | 2.1 The Office of theAmbassador/PermanentRepresentative | 11 | | 2.2NotificationoftheNomination | 11 | | 2.3NotificationtotheHouseandReferraltotheCommittee | 12 | | 2.4Notification to thePublic | 12 | | 2.5 Notification to the Nominee | 12 | | 2.6 Clearance and ComplianceRequirements | 13 | | 2.7 Issues for Consideration during the Approval Hearings | 13 | | 2.8MemorandafromMembersofthePublicinrespectof theNominee | 15 | | 3.0APPROVALHEARINGOFDR.JULIUSMURORIMBIJIWE,PhD.,AS AMBASSADORTOVATICAN,THEHOLYSEE. | 16 | | 3.1 Questionsfrom the General Questionnaire | 16 | | 3.2 General and Mission-Specific Questions to the Nominee | 17 | | 3.3Committee'sObservationsontheSuitabilityoftheNominee | 19 | | 4.0COMMITTEE'SGENERALOBSERVATIONS | 20 | | 5.0COMMITTEERECOMMENDATION | 21 |

LISTOFABBREVIATIONSANDACRONYMS

ANC

Amani National Congress

Cap

Chapter (of the Laws of Kenya)

CBS

Chief of the Burning Spear

CRB

CreditReferenceBureau

CUE

CommissionforUniversityEducation

DCI

DirectorateofCriminalInvestigations

EACC

Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission

H.E.

His Excellency

HELB

Higher Education Loans Board

KRA

Kenya Revenue Authority

MDAs

Ministries,DepartmentsandAgencies

M.P.

MemberofParliament

NIS

National IntelligenceService

ODM

OrangeDemocraticMovement

ODPP

OfficeoftheDirectorofPublicProsecutions

ORPP

Office of the Registrar of Political Parties

SDGs

SustainableDevelopment Goals

TSC

Teachers Service Commission

UDA

United DemocraticAlliance

UDM

United Democratic Movement

UN

United Nations

WDM-K

Wiper Democratic Movement of Kenya

LISTOFANNEXURES

| Annexure1: | TransmittalletterfromH.E.thePresident regardingparliamentary approval of the nomineefor appointment to theForeignService | |--------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Annexure2: | Messagefrom theHon.Speakerof theNationalAssembly totheHouse regarding nomination of one (1) person for appointment as Ambassador | | Annexure 3: | Advertisement notifying the public of the approval hearing and submission ofmemoranda | | Annexure 4: | Letter from the Clerk of the National Assembly inviting the nominee for the approval hearing | | Annexure5: | Lettersfrom the Clerk of theNationalAssembly toEACC,KRA,DCI, ODPP,ORPP and HELB requestinginformation on the nominee | | Annexure6: | Letters of clearance from EACC,KRA,DCI, ODPP,ORPP and HELB | | Annexure 7: | Nominee's Clearance Certificates from EACC,KRA,DCI, ORPP,HELB CRB and CUE | | Annexure8: | Nominee'scurriculumvitae | | Annexure 9: | Minutesof theSittings of theCommittee | | Annexure10: | Committee'sReportAdoptionSchedule |

CHAIRPERSON'SFOREWORD

This Report presents the proceedings and findings of the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations on the approval hearing of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., who was nominated by His Excellency the President for appointment as Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya toVatican, The Holy See. The purpose ofthe approval hearing was to ascertain the suitability of the nominee to discharge the responsibilities of the office to which he had been nominated.

The Committee is establishedpursuant toArticle 124(1)of the Constitution and theNational AssemblyStandingOrder216.TheNationalAssemblyStandingOrder216spellsout themandate ofDepartmentalCommitteeswhichincludesto:vetandreportonallappointmentswherethe ConstitutionoranylawrequirestheNationalAssemblytoapprove,exceptthoseunderStanding Order204(that aredoneby theCommitteeonAppointments).Further,theSecondSchedule of the Standing Orders mandates the Committee, among others, to oversee foreign relations, diplomatic and consular services, and international relations.

Pursuant to Article 132(2)(e) of the Constitution, the President nominated Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., for appointment as Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to Vatican, The Holy See,and transmitted thenominationtotheNationalAssemblyforapprovalin accordancewith the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap. 7F. The Speaker of the National Assembly subsequently referred thenomination to theDepartmental Committee onDefence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations for consideration and reporting to the House.

In undertaking this assignment, the Committee was guided by the Constitution, the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap. 7F, the Foreign Service Act, Cap. 185E, and the National Assembly Standing Orders. The Committee conducted the approval hearing on Monday, 27th April 2026, during which it examined the nominee's academic credentials, professional background, leadership experience, integrity, vision for advancing Kenya's

TheCommitteefurtherfacilitatedpublicparticipationinaccordancewithArticle118of the Constitution by inviting members of the public to submit memoranda on the nominee's suitability prior tothe approvalhearing.TheCommitteealsosoughtandobtainedclearancereportsfrom relevant statutorybodies regarding the nominee's compliance withlegalandintegrity requirements.

Having considered the nominee's academic and professional qualifications, work experience, integrityrecords,andresponsesduringthe approvalhearing,theCommitteewassatisfiedthatthe nominee meets the constitutional and statutory requirements for appointment. Accordingly,and pursuant to Article 132(2)(e) of the Constitution, Sections 3 and 8 of the Public Appointments Standing Order 216(5)(f),the Committee recommends that the House approves the appointment of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., as Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya toVatican,TheHolySee.

The Committee wishes to express its appreciation to the Members of the Committee for their diligence and valuable contributions during the approval hearing and preparation of this Report. The Committee also acknowledges the Office of the Speaker and the Office of the Clerk of the NationalAssemblyfor theadministrative andtechnical supportextended totheCommittee during theexercise.

Onbehalfof the Committee,and pursuant toStandingOrder199(6)of theNational Assembly,it is myprivilege and honour topresent to theHouse thisReport of theDepartmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations on the approval hearing of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., as Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya toVatican,The Holy See.

N

.. DATE.2A..4/22

SIGNED:..

THEHON.NELSONKOECH,CBS,MP CHAIRPERSON,DEPARTMENTALCOMMITTEEONDEFENCE,INTELLIGENCE ANDFOREIGNRELATIONS

EXECUTIVESUMMARY

Article132(2)(e) of the Constitution mandates thePresident to nominate,andwith the approval of the National Assembly appoint, Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and diplomatic representatives.Article 124(4)(a) further requires that such appointments be considered by a CommitteeoftherelevantHouse.

PursuanttotheseprovisionsandinaccordancewithSections3and5ofthePublicAppointments of the National Assembly the nomination of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., as Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to Vatican, The Holy See. The Speaker subsequently conveyed the Message to the House and referred the nomination to the Departmental Committee on Defence,Intelligence and Foreign Relations for vetting and reporting within the statutory timelines.

In compliance with Article 118 of the Constitution and Section 6(4) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, the Clerk of the National Assembly notified the public of the intended approval hearing and invited members of the public to submit memoranda on the suitability of the nominee.By the set deadline for receipt of memoranda, the Committee had not received any submissions contesting the suitability of the nominee.

The Clerk also sought clearance from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), and Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP), all of which confirmed the nominee's compliance with statutory and integrityrequirements.

The Committee conducted the approval hearing on Monday, 27th April 2026, guided by the Constitution, the Foreign Service Act, Cap. 185E, the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval)Act,Cap.7F,and the National Assembly Standing Orders.During the hearing,the Committee examined the nominee's academic qualifications,professional background,leadership experience, integrity, and vision for advancing Kenya's diplomatic, economic and bilateral relationswiththeVatican.

Having considered the nominee's academic credentials, professional qualifications, integrity clearance reports, and performance during the approval hearing, the Committee observed that the nominee meets the constitutional and statutoryrequirementsfor appointment toState Office, including compliance with Chapter Six of the Constitution on Leadership and Integrity.

Consequently, and pursuant to Article 132(2)(e) of the Constitution, Sections 3 and 8 of the Public Cap.185E,andStandingOrder216(5)(f)oftheNationalAssembly,theCommitteerecommends that the House APPROVES the appointment of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., as Ambassador of theRepublic of Kenya toVatican,TheHolySee.

1.0PREFACE

1.1 Introduction

1. Pursuant to Article 132(2)(e) of the Constitution as read with sections 20(2) and 22(2) (a) of the Foreign Service Act,Cap 185E,His Excellency the President, through the Head of the PublicService andviathe transmittalletterdated14thApril,2026,transmitted totheSpeaker of theNational Assembly the name of one(1) person nominated for approval by theHousefor appointmentasAmbassador. 2. 2.Article 124(4)(a) of the Constitution provides that when a House of Parliament considers any appointment for which its approval is required under the Constitution or an Act of Parliament, the appointment shall beconsidered by a Committee of therelevant House. 3. This report details the proceedings of the Committee during the approval hearing of the nominee for appointment as Ambassador. The purpose of the approval hearing was to ascertain the suitability of the nominee to discharge the responsibilities of the office of the Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to Vatican, The Holy See.

1.2EstablishmentandMandateoftheCommittee

• 4.The Departmental Committee on Defence Intelligence and Foreign Relations is one of the DepartmentalCommitteesof theNationalAssemblyestablishedunderStandingOrder216 whose mandates, pursuant to the Standing Order 216 (5) includes, among others, to vet and reportonallappointmentswheretheConstitutionoranyotherlawrequirestheNational Assemblytoapprove,exceptthoseunderStandingOrder204(CommitteeonAppointments).

1.3 Committee Subjects

• 5.The subject matter ofthe Committeeis stated in theSecond Schedule oftheNational Assembly Standing Orders and includes, among others, foreign relations, diplomatic and consular services,andinternationalrelations.

In executing its mandate,the Committee oversees the following government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs):

• (b) The Ministry of Defence;
• (a) The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs;
• (c)The State Department for East African Community Affairs (EAC); and
• (d) The National Intelligence Service (NIS).

1.4 CommitteeMembership

• The Committee was constituted by the House on 27th October 2022 and subsequently 6. reconstituted on 6th March 2025, and comprises the following Members:

Chairperson

Hon. Nelson Koech, CBS, M.P.

Belgut Constituency

UDA Party

Vice-Chairperson

Hon.Maj. (Rtd.) Sheikh Abdullahi Bashir, CBS,M.P.

UDM Party

Mandera North Constituency

Members

Hon. Wanjira Martha Wangari, CBS, M.P. Gilgil Constituency

Hon. Joshua Kandie, M.P. Baringo Central Constituency UDA Party

UDA Party

Hon.OdhiamboMillieG.Akoth,CBS,M.P.

Hon. Kwenya Thuku Zachary, M.P. Kinangop Constituency JubileeParty

Suba North Constituency ODM Party

Hon. Yusuf Hassan Abdi, CBS, M.P. Kamukunji Constituency Jubilee Party

Hon. Logova Sloya Clement, M.P. Sabatia Constituency

UDA Party

Hon. Kanchory Elijah Memusi, M.P.

Hon. Ikana Fredrick Lusuli, M.P. Shinyalu Constituency

Kajiado Central Constituency ODM Party

ANCParty

Hon. (Dr.) Kasalu Irene Muthoni, MP Kitui County

Hon.Mohamed A.Hussein,M.P. Lagdera Constituency ODM Party

WDM-K

Hon. Kirima Moses Nguchine, M.P.

Hon. Anne Muratha, M.P. Kiambu County UDA Party

Central Imenti Constituency UDA Party

Hon. Luyai Caleb Amisi, M.P. Saboti Constituency ODM Party

1.5CommitteeSecretariat

7. The Committee Secretariat comprises the following technical staff:

Mr.MuyodiEmmanuel

ClerkAssistantI/HeadofSecretariat

| Mr. Bernard Njeru ClerkAssistantIII | Mr. Lenny Muchangi Legal Counsel II | |---------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------| | Mr. Martin Sigei Research OfficerIII | Mr.Edwin Machuki Fiscal Analyst II | | Mr. Salat Ali Principal Serjeant-at-ArmsII | Mr.AlexAmwata Hansard Reporter II | | Ms. Frida Ngari Media Relations Officer III | Mr.Mark Mbuthia | | Ms.Maryan Gabow | Audio Recording OfficerIII | | Public Communications OfficerIII | |

2.0BACKGROUND

2.1The Office of theAmbassador/PermanentRepresentative

8. The Office of theAmbassador/Permanent Representative is an officeunder theMinistry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, according to Executive Order No. 2 of 2025. 2. 9.The duties of the office (Head of a Mission), pursuant to Section 21 of the Foreign Service Act Cap185E,areto: 3. (a) actively pursue the foreign policy objectives of the Republic in the host country; 4. (c) act as an official representative of the Republic at official functions in the host country; 5. (b) act as the personal representative of the Head of State in the host country; 6. (d)beresponsible for themanagement and administration of theMission and all members of the Foreign Servicelocated at theMission,including the locally engaged staff of the Mission; and 7. (e)be accountablefor anyexpenditure oftheMission and ensure that thebudget oftheMission is administered in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act, Cap 412A and all other applicablelaws andregulations. 8. 10.On appointment,Article 132(2)(e)of the Constitution provides that the President shall nominateand,withtheapprovaloftheNationalAssembly,appointandmaydismisshigh commissioners,ambassadors and diplomatic and consularrepresentatives.Section 20 of the Foreign Service Act, Cap 185E,reaffirms these constitutional provisions,designating the Office of a high commissioner, ambassador, diplomatic, or consular representative as a State office asperArticle260of theConstitution. 11. Additionally, Section 20(2) of the Act provides that in accordance with Article 132(2)(e) of the Constitution, the President shall nominate and, subject to approval by the National Assembly, appoint high commissioners, ambassadors, and diplomatic or consular representatives. Furthermore, Section 20(3) of the Act mandates that a nomination under subsection(2)should ensure afairbalancebetween careerdiplomats and other appointees,as well as represent the gender, regional, and other diversities of the Kenyan populace. Any individual nominated for appointment under subsection (2) must be a Kenyan citizen and possess reputable character and standing.

2.2NotificationoftheNomination

12. Pursuant to Article 132(2)(e) of the Constitution as read with Sections 20(2) and 22(2)(e) of the ForeignServiceAct Cap185E,andSections 3 and 5 of the PublicAppointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap 7F, His Excellency the President, through the Head of the PublicService,transmitted to theSpeaker of theNational Assemblyvide the transmittal letter dated14thApril,2026,referenced EOP/CAB.26/4A VOL.VIII/(8)(Annexure1),the name and curriculum vitae together with other testimonials of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., nominated for appointment as Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to Vatican, The Holy See.

2.3NotificationtotheHouseandReferraltotheCommittee

13. Pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order 42(2) of the National Assembly, the Speaker, through a Communication dated Thursday,16th April 2026,informed Members of the President's Message (Annexure 2) on nomination of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., nominated for appointment as Ambassador Vatican, The Holy See. 2. andStandingOrder216(5)(f)asreadwiththeSecondScheduleof theNationalAssembly Standing Orders, the name and curriculum vitae and other testimonials of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., nominated for appointment as Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to Vatican,The Holy See were referred to theDepartmental Committee onDefence,Intelligence and Foreign Relations for approval hearing as required under Article 124(4)(a) of the Constitution, and reporting to the House within twenty-eight (28) days.

2.4NotificationtothePublic

• 15.Article118of the Constitutionprovides thatParliament shallfacilitatepublicparticipation andinvolvement inthelegislativebusiness andotherbusiness ofParliament and its Committees. Further, Section 6(4) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap 7F provides that the Clerk shall notify the public of the time and place for holding approval hearings at least seven days prior to the hearings.

16. Further, Section 6(9) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap 7F provides that anyperson may, prior to the approval hearings and by written statement on oath,providetheClerkwithevidencecontestingthesuitabilityofacandidatetoholdtheoffice towhichthecandidatehasbeennominated.

• 17.Pursuant toArticle 118of the Constitution as read withSection 6(9)of Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap 7F, the Clerk of the National Assembly placed an advertisement in the print media on17th April 2026 (Annexure 3) inviting thepublic to submit memoranda by way of written statement on oath (affidavit) on the suitability or otherwise of thenominees on orbefore24thApril 2026at5.00pm.

18. Further, through the same advertisement and pursuant to Article 118 of the Constitution, Order45(3)oftheNationalAssembly,theClerkoftheNationalAssemblynotified thegeneral publicthat the approval hearingof thenomineewould beconducted onMonday27hApril 2026 at the Bunge Tower, Room 18/19, 3rd Floor, Parliament Buildings at 10.00 am.

2.5NotificationtotheNominee

• 19.The Clerk of theNational Assemblyinvited the nominee through letter dated 17thApril 2026 (Annexure 4) and through an advertisement in the print media on 17th April 2026 (Annexure 3),for theapprovalhearinginaccordancewithSection6(3)of thePublicAppointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap 7F.

2.6 Clearance and Compliance Requirements

20. On Friday, 17th April 2026, the Clerk of the National Assembly wrote to the EACC, KRA, DCI, HELB, ORPP and ODPP requesting for reports with respect to the nominee on ethics and integrity, tax compliance, criminal records, higher education loans repayments and political party affiliations. 21. The EACC, through a letter Ref. No. EACC.7/10/5 VOL. XXXVI (121) dated 22nd April 2026, confirmed that it had not undertaken any investigation nor has it recommended prosecutionofthenominee. 22. The KRA, through a letter Ref. No.KRA/5/1002/5(13895), dated 24th April 2026, confirmed that the nominee was tax compliant. 4. 23.The DCI, through a letter Ref. No.DCI/CRO/SEC/6/7/2/A/VOL.XIX/100 dated 23rd April 2026, provided forensic fingerprint analysis of the nominee had been conducted in the criminal database andfound thathehad noprevious criminal record. 24. The HELB, through a letter Ref. No. HELB/RR/112009/V/504 dated 22nd April 2026, indicated that the nominee was compliant. 6. 25.The ORPP, through a letter Ref.No.ORPP/ORG/34/VOL.X (13) dated 20th April 2026 confirmed that the nominee was not an official of any registered political party. 7. 26.The ODPP, through a letter Ref.No.ODPP/CONF/5/50A dated 24th April2026 confirmed that there were no active criminal proceedings or previous charges recorded against the nominee.

2.7 Issues for Consideration during the Approval Hearings

27. In conducting the approval hearings, the Committee was guided by Section 6(7) and (8) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap 7F which provides that: 2. (8 The criteria specifiedintheSchedule shall beusedby a Committeeduring an approval hearingforthepurposesofvettingacandidate. 3. (7)An approval hearingshall focus on a candidate's academic credentials,professional trainingandexperience,personalintegrityandbackground. 4. 28.Additionally, Section 7 of the Act provides that the issues for consideration by the relevant House of Parliament in relation to any nomination shall be: 5. (a)theprocedureusedtoarriveatthenominee; 6. (b) any constitutional or statutory requirements relating to the officein question; and thesuitabilityof thenomineefor theappointment proposedhavingregard towhether thenominee'sabilities,experienceandqualitiesmeettheneedsofthebodytowhich nominationisbeingmade.

(a)ProcedureforNomination

29. Article 132 (2)(e) of the Constitution confers upon the President the power to nominate and, with the approval of the National Assembly, appoint high commissioners, ambassadors and diplomatic and consular representatives.

• 30.Section 5(1) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval)Act, Cap 7F,further requires the appointing authority, upon nominating a person for appointment, to notify the relevantHouseofParliament.

31. In this regard, pursuant to Article 132(2)(e) of the Constitution and Section 5(1) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap 7F, the President notified the National Assembly of the nomination of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., for appointment as Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya toVatican, The Holy See.

(b)ConstitutionalandStatutoryRequirements

32. In addition, the Constitution and various statutes guide the appointment of persons to public office.In determining the suitability of the nominees, the Committee was guided by the provisions onleadership and integrity as outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution.Article 73(2) of the Constitution provides that the guiding principles of leadership and integrity include: 2. (a) selection on the basis of personal integrity, competence and suitability, or election in free and fair elections; 3. (b) objectivity and impartiality in decision making, and in ensuring that decisions are not influenced by nepotism, favouritism, other improper motives or corrupt practices; 4. i.honesty in the execution of public duties; and 5. (c)selfless service based solely on the public interest, demonstrated by —

• i. the declaration of any personal interest that may conflict with public duties;

7. (d) accountability to the public for decisions and actions; and 8. (e) discipline and commitment in service to the people. 9. 33.Furthermore,Article 75 of the Constitution requires a State Officer,whether in public or privatelife tobehavein amanner that avoidsconflictbetweenpersonal interest andpublic officialduties.ItfurtherprohibitsaStateOfficerwhohasbeendismissedorotherwise removedfromofficefromholdinganyotherStateOffice. 10. 34.Regarding the activities of State Officers,Article 77 of the Constitution prohibits afull-time State Officer from participating in any other gainful employment or holding office in a political party. 35. Further, Article 78 of the Constitution disqualifies persons who are not Kenyan citizens from appointment as State Officers. Equally, a State Officer is barred from holding dual citizenship. 12. 36.In addition, the Committee considered Section 10 of the Leadership and Integrity Act, Cap 185C which provides that: 13. AStateofficershall,tothebestoftheirability— 14. (a)carryout thedutiesoftheofficeefficiently and honestly; 15. (c)keepaccuraterecordsanddocumentsrelatingtothefunctionsoftheoffice;and 16. (b)carryout thedutiesinatransparentandaccountablemanner; 17. (d)reporttruthfullyon allmattersoftheorganizationwhichtheyrepresent.

37.Further, Section 20 of the Foreign Service Act, Cap 185E provides that:

• (1)The Office of a high commissioner,ambassador,diplomatic or consular representative shall beaStateofficeforpurposesofArticle260oftheConstitution.

• (2)PursuanttoArticle132(2)(e)oftheConstitution,thePresidentshallnominateand, subject tothe approval of the National Assembly,appoint high commissioners, ambassadorsanddiplomaticorconsularrepresentatives.
• (3)Anominationundersubsection(2)shallreflect (a)afairbalancebetweencareerdiplomatsandotherappointees;and (b)thegender,regional and otherdiversitiesofthepeopleofKenya.
• (4)Apersonnominatedforappointmentundersubsection(2)shall be-
• (a)a citizenofKenya;and
• (b)of a reputablecharacter and standing.
• (c)Suitabilityof thenomineesfor theproposed appointmentshavingregard towhether the nominees'abilities,experienceandqualitiesmeettheneedsofthebodytowhichthe nominationisbeingmade.
• 38.The nominee's suitability tohold the office of Ambassador of theRepublic of Kenya to Vatican,The HolySee was assessed through a scrutinyof his academic credentials, professional training and experience, personal integrity, background, as well as his performance during the approval hearings conducted onMonday, 27th April 2026.

2.8MemorandafromMembersof thePublicinrespectoftheNominee

• 39.The Clerk of the National Assembly placed an advertisement in the print media on 17th April 2026(Annexure3)invitingthepublictosubmitmemorandabywayofwrittenstatementson oath (affidavit) on the suitability or otherwise of the nominee in conformity withSection 6(9) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap 7F.

40. In this regard, by 24th April 2026 at 5.00 pm, the Committee had not received any submissionseither bywrittenstatement on oath(affidavit) or via email frommembers ofthe public regarding the nomination of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., for appointment as Ambassador toVatican,The HolySee.

3.0APPROVAL HEARING OF DR.JULIUS MURORI MBIJIWE,PhD.,AS AMBASSADORTOVATICAN,THEHOLYSEE.

41. Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., appeared before the Committee on Monday, 27th April 2026,at10.00 amandwasvetted underoathpursuant toArticle132(2)(e)oftheConstitution, Cap185E and theNational AssemblyStanding Orders.The Committee noted as follows:

3.1 Questions from the General Questionnaire

Citizenship,Date and Place ofBirth

42. The nominee is a Kenyan citizen born on 28th January 1973 in Meru County, within the RepublicofKenya.Heconfirmed that he is acitizenbybirth and doesnothold dual citizenship.

Academic andProfessional Qualifications

43. The nominee holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Project Planning and Management, as well as a Master of Arts in Project Planning and Management from, the University of Nairobi. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Education (Science) from Kenyatta University.

EmploymentRecord andWorkExperience

• 44.The nominee has served as Chief of Staff for Meru County since 2025 to date.Prior to this, he served as a Member of the CountyAssembly in Meru Countyfrom 2013to2022,during which he held key leadership roles, including Chairperson of the Budget Committee and the PublicAccounts andInvestments Committee.

Honours andawards

45. The nominee has received several recognitions, including being awarded as the best MCA in Meru County in 2022.

Professional Association and Memberships

• 46.The nominee is a member of Kenya Red Cross Society.

Published Writings

• 47.The nominee did not indicate any published writings.

PublicOffice,PoliticalActivitiesandAffiliations

• 48.Thenomineehasserved astheExecutiveSecretaryof theKenyaUnion of PostPrimary Education Teachers (KUPPET) and as a Member of the County Assembly, Meru County from2013 to2022.

IncomeandNetWorth

• 49.The nominee declared an estimated net worth of approximatelyKES 80 million.

PotentialConflictofInterest

• 50.The nominee declared that he does not have any persons, litigation, financial arrangement, matter orissuethat would present a potential conflict ofinterest shouldhe assume theposition of Ambassador.The nominee stated that,should a conflict of interestariseduring the

discharge of his duties, he would declare the interest in writing to the appointing authority in accordancewiththelaw.

Pro-Bono,CharityWorkorDonationtoCharity

51. Thenomineehas participatedinfundraisers towards building churches and done donations for poor and vulnerable families.

Integrity

52. Thenomineestatedthathehasneitherbeenchargedinacourtoflawnoradverselymentioned in any investigatory report of Parliament or any Commission of Inquiry in the last three years. Thenomineehasneverbeendismissed or otherwiseremovedfrom officefor contravention of theprovisions of Article75 of theConstitution.

3.2 General and Mission-Specific Questions to theNominee

• 53.To assess the nominee's overall suitability for the position, the Committee posed questions to the nominee on his suitability for appointment as the Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to Vatican, The Holy See. The nominee responded as follows:

On thesignificanceofVaticanMission andthecost-benefitof theembassy

54. The nominee acknowledged the strategic importance of establishing a standalone Kenyan embassyat theVatican.He emphasized theVatican's extensiveinvolvementinKenya throughitswidenetworkofeducationalandhealthinstitutionsanditsactiverolein peacebuilding initiatives,which necessitate close diplomatic engagement.The nominee further stated that having a dedicated embassy would allow for more focused and timely diplomatic activities, which are currently managed from the Kenyan embassy in France. Despite acknowledging theincreased financial costs,he suggested that the long-term benefits and improved efficiency justify the investment.

On the linguistic requirements of theVatican

55. Dr. Julius stated that, in recognition of the linguistic requirements of the Vatican, where Italian and Latin are the principal languages of communication, he would enroll in Italian language instruction and, in the interim, utilize interpretation services to ensure the effective discharge of his duties. He further stated that English is widely spoken within diplomatic circles at theVatican and affirmed his proficiency in the language.

On thesignificance ofVatican-Kenya relations

• 56.The nominee underscored theHolySee's extensive contribution toKenya through itswide network of educational and health institutions,noting their role in supporting peacebuilding efforts that complement Kenya's national priorities. He emphasized the need for consistent, day-to-day diplomatic engagement within Vatican City to enhance coordination and effective management ofthesepartnerships.

On the Nominee's view regarding the proposed ForeignService (Amendment) Bill,2025

• 57.He stated that he was aware of the proposal to ensure that in nominations for positions such as high commissioners,ambassadors, and other diplomatic or consularrepresentatives,career diplomatsconstitute themajorityat aratioof70:30compared tonon-career appointees. However, he supported a broader pool of candidates that includes politicians and other professionals, arguing that political and leadership experience equips individuals with valuable negotiation and governance skills that can enrich and strengthen the diplomatic service.

On theNominee'sunderstandingof theVatican'sUniqueDiplomaticStatus

• 58.1 Dr. Julius Mujiwe's response indicated a surfacing understanding of theVatican's unique diplomatic status. While his remarks remained general, touching on "oversight" and consultation in conflict situations, and he acknowledged some lack of clarity,he nonetheless

OntheNominee'sassessmentoftheeffectivenessofdevolution

59. Dr. Julius stated that devolution is functional but requires further strengthening to fully realizeits intended objectives.He observed that,notwithstanding existing challenges,the system has made notable progress in decentralizing governance, bringing services closer to the people, and enhancing public participation in decision-making processes. 2. 60.Hefurtherstated that devolutionhas contributed tomore equitabledistribution of resources across regions and has empowered county governments to address local priorities more effectively. However, he noted that issues such as capacity constraints at the county level, delays in the disbursement of funds,and instances ofintergovernmental conflict continue to impede optimal performance. 3. 61.Dr. Julius emphasized the need for sustained institutional support, improved accountability mechanisms, and enhanced coordination between the national and county governments to strengthen the effectiveness of devolution.He underscored that addressing these challenges would consolidate the gainsmade and ensure that devolution delivers more efficiently and responsively to the citizens.

On the proposed strategy for rationalizing wagebill management in the Counties

62. The nominee suggested rationalizing county workforces and encouraging multitasking to reduce wage bill pressures. He linked this approach to meeting the Public Financial ManagementAct'smandatethatcountiesallocatenotlessthan30%oftheirbudgetsto development, a target many counties struggle to achieve.

On the Nominee's negotiation experience and its relevance to diplomacy

• 63.The nominee stated that his leadership in budget negotiations between Meru County AssemblyandExecutiveArmofGovernmentdemonstratedpracticalexperiencedirectly transferable to diplomatic engagements. Additionally, his participation in teachers' union negotiations during the 2012 strike further strengthened his skills in conflict resolution, mediation,and consensus-building.

OntheNominee'sunderstandingofreligious andcultural dimensionsoftheVatican

• 64.7 The nominee stated thathis Catholicbackground,includinghis leadershiproles within his parish and active association with religious congregations, constitutes a significant cultural asset in thecontext ofhisprospective assignment.Henoted that this experiencehasafforded him a deep appreciation of the traditions,values, and hierarchical structures that underpin the Vatican's religious and institutional framework, as well as familiarity with Catholic doctrine.

65. He added that this foundation would enable him to engage effectively and respectfully with officials of the HolySee and is expected tofacilitate relationshipbuilding,foster mutual understanding, and strengthen engagement within both the religious and diplomatic spheres of the Vatican.

OnKenya'sForeignServicePillars

66. Dr. Julius acknowledged a limited understanding of the full scope of Kenya's foreign service pillars,citing security and economic interests while omitting key areas such as climate change, diaspora affairs, and environmental diplomacy. He,however, expressed a clear willingness to undertake further capacity building and advisory support to address these gaps.

3.3Committee'sObservations on theSuitabilityof theNominee

67. The Committee, having reviewed the nominee's completed questionnaire, curriculum vitae and oral submission, made the following observations regarding his suitability for appointment as Ambassador of the Republic of Kenya to Vatican, The Holy See:

• (1) THAT, in accordance with Article 78(1) and (2) of the Constitution, the nominee is eligible for appointment toState Officesincehe is aKenyancitizen anddoes not hold dual citizenship.
• (2) THAT, the nominee meets the requirements of Chapter Six (6) of the Constitution on leadership and integrity having obtained clearances from EACC, KRA, DCI, ODPP, ORPP,HELBandCUE.
• (3) THAT, the nominee has not been charged in a court of law.
• (4) THAT, the nominee does not hold office in any political party, a requirement under Article 77(2) of the Constitution and the Schedule of the Public Appointment (Parliamentary Approval) Cap 7F.

6. (5)THAT,thenomineehasneverbeendismissedfromofficeunderArticle75of the Constitutionfor contravention of theprovisions of Articles 75(1),Article 76,Article 77 andArticle78(2)oftheConstitution.

4.0COMMITTEE'SGENERALOBSERVATIONS

68. The Committee, having considered the nominee's academic credentials and professional qualifications, work and professional experience, personal integrity, as well as his performance during the approval hearing, made the following general observations: 2. 1)The nominee is a Kenyan citizen and does not hold dual citizenship in conformity with Article78 of the Constitution. 3. 2)The nominee committed not to participate in any other gainful employment while serving as aStateOfficer as required byArticle77(1) of theConstitution. 4. 3)In accordancewithArticle 77(2)of the Constitution and theScheduleof thePublic Appointment (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap 7F, the nominee does not hold office in any political party. 5. 4 )ThenomineeindicatedcompliancewithArticles75and76of theConstitutiononthe conduct and financial probityof State Officers.He indicated thenonexistenceof a potential conflict of interest and committed to declare any should it arise. 6. 5) By theset deadlineofreceipt ofmemorandafrommembersofthepublic,theCommittee did not receive any submissions either by written statement on oath (affidavit) or via email from members of the public regarding the nomination of Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., for appointment as Ambassador to Vatican, The Holy See. 7. 6 Thenomineepresentedhis academic and professional credentials,made oral submissions during the approval hearing, demonstrating his suitability for appointment in accordance with the provisions of Section 6(7) of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act,Cap7F.

• 7) Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., possesses a robust academic foundation, having advancedfromsecondaryeducationtoadoctoraldegreeinProjectPlanningand Management. He is further distinguished by extensive experience in leadership and governance.

9. 8 His decade-long service in the Meru County Assembly, involvement in union leadership. andcurrent role as Chief of Staff inMeru County demonstrated solidnegotiation and stakeholdermanagementskills. 10. 9)In addition, his deep Catholic faith and active participation in church activities were seen as relevant attributesfor engagementwith theVatican,and he showed awareness of the Catholic Church's substantial institutional footprint in Kenya, particularly in education and healthcare.

• 10) He also expressed willingness to learn and improve his understanding of diplomacy, which the Committee viewed as a positive trait.
• 11) The Committee noted the nominee's acknowledgement of the strategic importance of establishing a standaloneKenyanMissionto theHolySee.Thenomineehighlighted the Holy See's extensive involvement in Kenya through its wide network of educational and

• health institutions,as well asits active role inpeacebuilding initiatives,which necessitate close and sustained diplomaticengagement.Hefurther observed that a dedicatedMission inVatican City would enablemorefocused,timely,and effective diplomatic operations comparedto the current arrangementunder theKenyanEmbassyinFrance.While acknowledging the additional financialimplications,thenomineeexpressed theview that thelong-termbenefits and improved efficiencywould justify theinvestment.
• 12)TheCommitteefurther notes thatitsReport on theSupplementaryBudgetEstimatesNo. 1fortheFinancialYearending30thJune2026hadrecommendedthattheMinistryof Foreign andDiasporaAffairs submit a detailed cost-benefit analysis andjustificationfor the establishment of a newMission at theVatican,particularly in light of Kenya's existing non-resident accreditation throughFranceunder theHolySee's diplomaticframework.
• 13)In this regard, the Committee expresses concern that, despite the stated strategic and diplomatic value including enhanced bilateral engagement, improved access to the Holy See's extensiveglobal diplomaticnetwork,strengthenedcollaborationinpeacebuilding and humanitarian efforts,and increased soft-power influence through faith-based partnerships the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has not yet provided a comprehensiveandevidence-basedjustificationdemonstratingthatthesebenefits sufficientlyoutweighthe associated establishment andoperational costs.
• 14) The Committee therefore reiterates its recommendation that the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs submit a detailed cost-benefit analysis and clear strategic justification for the proposed Mission to the HolySee,outlining measurable diplomatic,developmental, and foreign policy gains, as well as a sustainable framework to ensure value for money.
• 15)Dr.Juliusdemonstratedstrongleadershipcredentialsandacademicachievement. However,he would require substantialpreparation toeffectivelyrepresentKenya's interests at theHolySee,an institutionwhosediplomaticpractice is shapedlessby conventional statecraft than by religious doctrine and canonical governance.

5.0COMMITTEERECOMMENDATION

69. Having conducted the approval hearing pursuant to Article 132(2)(e)of the Constitution; Sections 3 and 8 of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act, Cap 7F; Section 20 (2) of the Foreign Service Act, Cap 185E and Standing Order 216(5)(f) of the National Assembly,theCommitteerecommendsthattheHouseAPPROVEStheappointmentof Dr. Julius Murori Mbijiwe, Ph.D., as the Ambassador to Vatican, The Holy See.

AC

..DATE.?.0.Y/-2C

SIGNED:.

CHAIRPERSON,DEPARTMENTALCOMMITTEEONDEFENCE,INTELLIGENCE

THEHON.NELSONKOECH,CBS,MP ANDFOREIGNRELATIONS

THE NATIONALASSEMBLY PAPERSLAD

DATE:

2 8 APR 2026

TABL2D

ReporoftheDepartmentalCommitteeonDefence,IntelligenceandForeignRelationsontheApprovalhearingofDr.Julius MuroriMbijiwePh.D.forappointmentasAmbassadortoVatican,TheHolySee SHE