A Kuwaiti ambassador who left the country after facing serious assault charges in New Zealand, was able to return in order to hold a farewell party.
The ambassador, Ahmed Bader Razouqi is accused of assaulting a woman in central Wellington in November 2015.
Ahmed Bader Razouqi is accused of assaulting a woman in central Wellington in November 2015. Photo: www.gg.govt.nz
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) asked Kuwait to waive his diplomatic immunity, so he could be charged, but the request was denied.
Emails released under The Official Information Act showed the ministry allowed the diplomat to return to New Zealand in April last year for 10 days to conclude his affairs and hold an informal and low-key farewell.
"The Ministry hereby wishes to express the New Zealand Government's serious disappointment in Kuwait's decision not to accept New Zealand's request to waive its immunity.
"The Ministry further wishes to reiterate that there exists a strong public expectation in New Zealand that foreign diplomats who are accused of committing serious crimes in New Zealand will face justice in New Zealand," the email from MFAT said.
The ministry said when granting permission for Mr Razouqi to return it was clear on what was expected - the diplomat was not to conduct any official business or hold any formal farewell functions.
Mr Razouqi left the country on April 10th last year and his diplomatic visa was cancelled.
