Tension is simmering between Kenya and Somalia after an attack by the Federal Government of Somalia’s soldiers that destroyed property in Mandera.
Responding to the attack, President Uhuru Kenyatta stated that the actions by Somalia’s National Army on the 2nd of March were unwarranted and only meant to provoke Kenya.
Through State House spokesperson Kanze Dena, President Kenyatta notes that the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) acted in total restraint to the ‘flagrant violation of the country’s territorial integrity during the attack.
“This action amounts to an unwarranted attack by foreign soldiers with the intention of provoking Kenya,” read the statement in part.
Kenya warned Somalia against any further provocations, accusing it of engaging in a smear campaign to delegitimize the country.
“Indeed, we encourage the Federal Government of Somalia to stop the smear campaign and commit the energy to deliver leadership and prosperity to its people,” read the statement.
Somalia has accused Kenya of meddling in its internal affairs in the recent past, with the highlight being the entry of Jubaland minister Abdirashid Janan into Kenya.
Janan escaped from a Mogadishu prison in February and has been on the run.
Monday, March 2, Somalia’s Army crossed into the Kenyan border with a view to capturing the fugitive minister who allegedly crossed in with at least 100 soldiers.
Janan is accused of a massacre, gross violation of human rights and illegal escape from custody.