Former Kenya MP critical of govt crackdown on Somalis

21 Jan 21, 2010 - 10:26:19 AM

A former Kenyan member of parliament accused Kenyan government of waging economical war against the Somali populations in the name of security operations.

Billow Kerow, whose wife and daughter were among hundreds of people arrested in the on-going crack-down against Somalis in the major cities, said powerful Kenya individuals are behind the crack-down which is only targeted on Somali population, both Kenyans and those from their native Somalia.

"The on-going operation in Kenya is intended to segregate Somalis and give way for prowling of their properties," he told reporters.

He added: "The plan to harass Somalis has not started now, it was a campaign launched by Local media to undercut the vibrant commerce of Somalis and their stay in the country."

Kerow claims that the result of a recent conducted national census has shown that the number of Somalis in the country has increased; opening platforms for inciters to instigate hatred amongst Kenyans that Somalis have taken taking over the country.

"The Kenyan government has going around questioning the source of Somali capital with even claims that it is generated from piracy and money laundering scams," he noted.

Billow’s sentiments were also echoed by some Kenyan Somali politicians who said the ongoing security crack-down is specifically targeted on Somalis.

The government has its own agendas, it claiming that the flag, which the protesting youths were waving is an Al-Shabaab one, which I think Is falsehood. We know the one for Al-Shabaab and the government is using this to kick out Somalis from the country, said Ilias Bare Shil, a former lawmaker.

Kenyan security forces are still raiding Somali-populated areas in major towns with latest reports putting the number of arrested people to over 2000.

On other hand, Kenyan government spokesman Alfred Mutua said on Thursday that his government will not allow Somalis to disrupt peace and stability in the country.

"We will not allow them (Somalis) to destroy our country just like they did back in their country," he told reporters in his weekly briefing.

GAROWE ONLINE