The Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) Coast region has issued a stern warning to the Saudi Embassy in Kenya, accusing it of meddling in its internal affairs. This comes after recent remarks by the Saudi ambassador, which the council claims are an attempt to interfere with its leadership and segregate Muslims on racial grounds. The council's regional coordinator, Hamisi Mwaguzo, addressed the media in Mombasa on Tuesday, expressing the council's concerns and outlining their intended course of action.
Mwaguzo emphasized that SUPKEM is prepared to seek legal redress through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs if the ambassador does not heed their call to cease interference. "Muslims all over the world respect the Saudi government. Again, there has been a cordial relationship between the two countries," he stated, highlighting the historical ties between Kenya and Saudi Arabia. Mwaguzo stressed that Kenyan Muslims have a constitutional right to elect leaders of their choice, as enshrined in SUPKEM's bylaws, and that these rights should be respected by all parties.
The regional coordinator further explained that the longstanding cordial relations between Kenya and Saudi Arabia should not be jeopardized by actions that could lead to racial segregation among Muslims. "We do not want a situation where his office will be misused. We want him to work together with all the Muslims in Kenya," Mwaguzo insisted. He expressed concern that the ambassador's remarks could cause confusion within the council, potentially disrupting its operations and unity.
Mwaguzo, who also chairs the Kenya Muslims Youth Alliance, called for the Saudi envoy to collaborate closely with Kenyan Muslims in a manner that serves the public interest. "We are also surprised by his remarks. It has never happened in the history of the council," he noted, underscoring the unprecedented nature of the situation. The council is keen to maintain harmony and unity among Muslims in Kenya and expects the Saudi ambassador to support these efforts rather than hinder them.
The allegations of interference have sparked discussions within the Muslim community in Kenya, with many calling for a resolution that respects the autonomy of SUPKEM and the rights of Kenyan Muslims. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the response from the Saudi Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as they work to address the council's concerns and preserve the diplomatic ties between the two nations.
