By The News Booth Desk
Email: info.newsbooth@gmail.com
Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI), a prominent non-governmental organization based in Mombasa, has issued a stern ultimatum to the Kenyan government, demanding the immediate repatriation of seven Kenyan nationals stranded at the Kenya-Somalia border near Ras Kamboni. The NGO has threatened legal action should the government fail to facilitate their return. This development was announced by MUHURI Chairperson Khelef Khalifa during a press briefing in Mombasa on Tuesday.
Khalifa accused Lamu County Commissioner Irungu Macharia of obstructing the entry of these individuals, allegedly acting on an 'order from above' due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Khalifa strongly criticized this decision, labeling it a blatant violation of the rights of the individuals involved, as enshrined in the 2010 Kenyan Constitution. "The seven Kenyans were vetted and cleared to return home by both Somali and Kenyan security authorities. However, upon reaching the border, they were denied entry and their travel documents were confiscated," Khalifa stated.
The seven individuals affected by this situation are Patrick Shighula Mwangala, Martin Mwangazi, Ignus Kialu, Michael Mjala, Gabriel Kennedy, Elia Mwalili, and Abbas Mutuku. They had initially traveled to Kismayo, Somalia, for a short-term welding contract with Solution Engineering Ltd, a Nairobi-based company. Their journey had been authorized by the Kenyan immigration department, allowing them to depart via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
For the past month, these Kenyans have been unable to re-enter their home country, a predicament that Khalifa describes as increasingly dire with each passing day. The prolonged delay in resolving their situation has raised concerns about their welfare and safety, given the challenging conditions at the border.
In a bid to expedite their return, MUHURI has formally reached out to Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i, urging immediate intervention. "We have written a letter to Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i. This is a violation of the rights of the seven Kenyans. We want them brought back home," Khalifa emphasized.
The case highlights ongoing challenges faced by citizens abroad during the pandemic, as governments balance public health concerns with constitutional rights. MUHURI’s stance underscores the importance of adhering to legal frameworks while addressing humanitarian needs, and the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safe return of the stranded Kenyans.
