Diplomatic Fallout: Romania Recalls Kenyan Ambassador Following Controversial ‘Monkeys’ Remark
Romania recalled its ambassador to Kenya, Dragos Tigau. For remarks he made at the United Nations office in Nairobi comparing Africans to monkeys.
In a notice dated June 10. The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs apologized for Tigau’s remarks. And noted that he was recalled as soon as the country learned of the incident.
The country’s Internal Control and Diplomatic Evaluation Unit has also initiated the necessary procedures. Including the implementation of internal measures to investigate the matter further.
“The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regrets that, in violation of the institution’s rules, including those of conduct and ethics, the Romanian Ambassador to Kenya failed to notify the MFA headquarters about the incident that occurred at the end of April 2023.
The letter stated, in part. That the Romanian ambassador to Kenya should return to Romania as soon as possible, and that the MFA’s internal Control and Diplomatic Evaluation Unit should immediately review the necessary procedures, including the establishment of internal measures to be taken in the given situation.
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Ambassador Dragos Tigau remarked during discussions between Eastern European and African diplomats in Gigiri, where he referred to the African group using the monkey slur.
“We deeply regret this situation and extend our sincerest apologies to everyone who has been affected; any racist behavior or remarks are completely unacceptable. We hope it will not affect relations with African nations,” the letter continued.
In addition, the former principal secretary for foreign affairs, Macharia Kamau, expressed his disappointment in the remarks and stated that the Romanian leader’s actions were regrettable.
“Appalled and disgusted to learn that the Romanian ambassador in Nairobi referred to African group members as monkeys during a meeting with the Eastern European group. Attempts to conceal this disgrace are an utter disgrace. This is unacceptable and intolerable!” Kamau stated.
As a result of the gravity of the situation, the African diplomats voiced their disappointment and demanded a public apology.
They acknowledged that a private apology was insufficient.
They stated that a public apology would be the only way for the envoy to demonstrate genuine regret for his offensive actions.
The Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs had not yet responded.
Diplomatic Fallout: Romania Recalls Kenyan Ambassador Following Controversial ‘Monkeys’ Remark
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