Kenya expresses ‘deep regret’ after Somalia expels envoy Tumbo

NAIROBI, Kenya - The Kenyan government says it regrets the “unfortunate” move by Somalia to expel ambassador Lt. General (Rtd) Lucas Tumbo from the country over alleged interference in the upcoming elections.

Through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Kenyan Government noted that it was yet to receive any official communication from the Federal Republic of Somalia.

“This action is reportedly based on unsubstantiated allegations, namely; “continued interference in the internal affairs of Somalia”. The Government of Kenya respects and upholds the cardinal international principles of self-determination, sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity of all countries, and in particular those in Africa,” the statement reads.

According to Somalia, the Kenyan Government is placing immense political pressure on the regional President of Jubaland Axmed Maxamed Islam (Ahmed Madobe) in order to pursue its political and economic interests in Somalia.

Kenya is being accused of pushing the Jubaland leader to renege on the election agreement that was reached on September 17, 2020, in Mogadishu.

However, the Government reiterated its support of the positive steps taken by the People of Somalia in the implementation of the Somali-owned Political Roadmap on Inclusive Politics.

The Foreign Ministry said this includes the September 2020 Agreement between the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and Federal Member States (FMS) on the election model and election calendar for 2020/21.

“It is therefore incumbent upon all political actors in Somalia to stay true to their political commitments, avoid distracting actions, but rather engage constructively to ensure timely implementation of the elections calendar, which will mark another critical phase in the post-conflict reconstruction efforts in Somalia,” the ministry said on Monday.

The ministry further reiterated its support towards the People of Somalia in their quest for peace and stability by employing active diplomacy, making a meaningful contribution towards re-establishment of institutions of political governance, security sector reforms, trade, development assistance, and humanitarian aid, over and above the huge sacrifices made through the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).

“The objective of these efforts is to foster peace, stability and good neighborliness that will guarantee and set a firm foundation for the political, social and economic prosperity for the People of Somalia,” the statement adds.