Mandera Locals Take to Streets Over Reported Jubaland Forces in Kenya
Tension is rising in Mandera County after residents staged demonstrations to oppose what they described as the unlawful presence of Jubaland forces inside Kenya’s borders.
On Tuesday, communities living around the Border Point One (BP1) area poured into the streets, voicing fears for their safety and accusing the government of ignoring their plight. The villagers said children have stopped attending school amid concerns of abductions and forced recruitment by the foreign troops.
The protesters urged immediate action from Nairobi, warning that the continued presence of Jubaland soldiers could further destabilize the region and undermine Kenya’s sovereignty. They linked the situation to recent clashes between the Somali National Army and Jubaland fighters, which allegedly spilled over into Mandera.
Governor Raises Alarm
Mandera Governor Mohamed Khalif echoed residents’ fears, warning that a newly established Jubaland camp had disrupted security in the area. According to him, the situation has even forced the closure of schools just weeks before national examinations.
“We want to call upon President William Ruto, as the commander-in-chief, to shut down the BP1 camp and ensure the Jubaland forces are relocated outside Mandera,” Khalif urged during a Friday address.
He further revealed that a public school had been shut and repurposed into a military training base to host the foreign troops.
Silence from Nairobi
Despite mounting pressure, the national government has yet to release an official response. This silence has drawn criticism from several leaders, including former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, who accused current CS Soipan Tuya of failing to address the crisis.
“It is a violation of our sovereignty and territorial integrity. I am surprised that up to now the Defence CS has not said anything, and we have not heard from the KDF. Are they allowing Jubaland forces to operate within Kenyan territory?” Wamalwa asked.
For now, Mandera residents remain on edge, waiting for clarity on whether the alleged foreign presence will be addressed or ignored, as calls for decisive action continue to grow louder.
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Mandera Locals Take to Streets Over Reported Jubaland Forces in Kenya