Maraga urges President Ruto to order withdrawal of Jubaland forces from Mandera
Former CJ David Maraga stressed that the presence of the foreign troops is a serious violation of Kenya's sovereignty and poses significant constitutional and security risks.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga has urged President William Ruto to ensure the immediate withdrawal of armed Jubaland forces from Mandera County following recent reports of their presence and activities in the region.
In a statement on Wednesday, Maraga stressed that the presence of the foreign troops is a serious violation of Kenya's sovereignty and poses significant constitutional and security risks.
"Recent reports confirming the entry and operation of armed Jubaland (Republic of Somalia) forces in Mandera County have raised profound constitutional, legal and security concerns. As a sovereign state, Kenya's borders are inviolable," he said.
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"The protection of our territorial integrity is a fundamental duty imposed on the president and all state organs by our constitution. I therefore call upon President Ruto to ensure the prompt withdrawal of Jubaland forces from Kenya."
Further, Maraga urged Parliament to demand an explanation from the President on how the Jubaland forces were allowed into the country, emphasising that the rule of law requires transparency and accountability, especially in matters of national security.
"I also urge Parliament, as the representative of the people, to demand a full account from President Ruto on how these forces were allowed into our country and under what legal framework," he said.
"Article 238 of the Constitution clearly states that the primary objective of national security is to safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Kenya and to protect its people."
Maraga, while expressing support for Mandera residents who have decried the presence of Jubaland forces, added that the situation sets a dangerous precedent and weakens the public's confidence in the government's ability to guarantee their safety.
"This serious violation of our sovereignty sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden external actors to interfere with our internal affairs and weaken the confidence of our citizens, as it has already done, in the State's ability to guarantee their safety and security," he said.
"Kenya's sovereignty and security are a prerequisite for our nation's prosperity. As leaders and citizens alike, we must jealously guard the people's power for present and future generations."
Mandera Governor Adan Mohamed Khalif first verified the presence of the Jubaland forces at the Border Point One in Mandera in late August, voicing concern that their continued presence poses a threat to residents and urged the government to assist in their removal.
Mandera residents have also protested the troops' presence, claiming it is disrupting local life and keeping children from school due to fears of abduction and forced recruitment.
They have similarly criticised the government for remaining silent despite calls for intervention.
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