The planned 2026 joint military training between Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) has been cancelled in Kenya due to unresolved legal and accountability concerns. The British announced the training will now be held outside Kenya after attempts to secure the necessary licenses failed.

Legal and Accountability Issues Cited

Nelson Koech, chairperson of the National Assembly Defence, Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Committee, explained that the main sticking points involved legal jurisdiction over British personnel, immunity provisions, and mechanisms to ensure accountability of foreign troops on Kenyan soil.

Koech highlighted the unresolved issues linked to the 2012 murder of Agnes Wanjiru, allegedly involving British soldiers attached to BATUK, and longstanding grievances from communities in Nanyuki and Laikipia.

Parliamentary Inquiry and Recommendations

The committee conducted a two-year inquiry into BATUK operations, presenting its findings in November 2025. The report recommended ratification of the agreement only with strict conditions including:

  • Kenyan courts having jurisdiction over serious offenses by visiting troops
  • Mandatory cooperation with Kenyan criminal investigations and parliamentary inquiries
  • Environmental and welfare responsibilities
  • Enhanced protections for host communities

These conditions align with the Treaty Making and Ratification Act, 2012, and Kenya’s constitutional requirements.

Kenya’s Position on the Defence Partnership

Koech emphasized Kenya’s appreciation of the longstanding defence collaboration with the UK, which has supported counter-terrorism and capacity building. However, he stressed that the partnership must be based on mutual respect, equality, and adherence to Kenyan law.

"The standard for upholding the rule of law is non-negotiable," Koech stated, underscoring the committee’s commitment to transparency and accountability for the benefit of affected communities and national sovereignty.

Allegations of Corruption Denied

Following the cancellation, Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua alleged that bribery demands involving President William Ruto and MPs contributed to the breakdown in talks. However, these claims have not been substantiated and contrast with Koech’s official explanation focused on legal and jurisdictional issues.

The cancelled training, known as Exercise Haraka Storm, is a six-week combat exercise that has been held in Laikipia and Lolldaiga since 2023. The UK had planned to deploy 1,500 soldiers for the September 2026 session.