By Ollus Ndomu
The Kenyan government has confirmed ongoing talks with Vietnamese authorities in a last-minute effort to secure clemency for Margaret Nduta, a Kenyan woman sentenced to death for drug trafficking in Vietnam.
Nduta’s execution, which was initially scheduled for yesterday, has been temporarily delayed as diplomatic negotiations continue. Kenya’s foreign ministry stated that it has engaged a Vietnamese government representative to plead for a reprieve, though the outcome remains uncertain.
The case has sparked widespread concern in Kenya, where citizens and advocacy groups have united in an emotional appeal for leniency. Vietnam, known for its strict anti-drug laws, routinely imposes the death penalty for drug-related offenses, leaving little room for judicial reconsideration.
Kenyan officials have not disclosed details of the discussions but emphasized that they are exhausting all possible avenues to save Nduta’s life. Meanwhile, human rights organizations have renewed calls for Vietnam to reconsider capital punishment for non-violent offenses.
With time running out, the fate of Nduta hangs in the balance as diplomatic efforts intensify.
