Parliamentary Oversight in Action as Government Briefs Senate on Repatriation Efforts

The State Department for Parliamentary Affairs participated in a briefing before the Senate Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations on 22 June 2026, focusing on matters of national importance, including ongoing efforts to repatriate the remains of Kenyans who lost their lives in a plane crash in South Sudan on 27 April 2026.

The session was attended by the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, and the Principal Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. Aurelia Rono.

During the engagement, Dr. Mudavadi updated the Committee on the progress made in identifying and repatriating the remains of the victims aboard the Kenyan-registered Cessna aircraft operated by CityLink Aviation Ltd. He noted that the severity of the crash necessitated DNA testing to facilitate identification, with Kenya’s Embassy in Juba working closely with South Sudanese authorities, forensic experts, and affected families throughout the process.

The Committee was informed that the remains of Captain Francis Lagat Ruto were positively identified and repatriated to Kenya on 16 June 2026. Efforts to conclusively identify the remains of Mr. Brian Mwenge remain ongoing, with additional DNA verification processes underway.

Speaking during the session, Principal Secretary Aurelia Rono underscored the importance of parliamentary oversight and intergovernmental collaboration in addressing issues affecting citizens. The engagement highlighted the Government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsive service delivery, while also demonstrating the critical role of Kenya’s diplomatic missions in safeguarding the welfare of Kenyans abroad.

The Government continues to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the process is concluded with dignity, professionalism, and compassion for the affected families.