Mandera Senator Ali Roba has sounded the alarm over the alleged presence of Jubaland forces inside Mandera town, warning that the situation poses a direct threat to Kenya’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.
In a statement Wednesday, Roba described the situation in Mandera as “alarming,” claiming that schools had been shut down, teachers shaken, businesses paralyzed, and families displaced as Jubaland and Somalia’s federal forces build up weapons and prepare for confrontation.
“Jubaland forces are now inside Mandera town, literally taking over our community. This is a humiliation of our sovereignty,” Roba said.
“The absurdity of a regional state government fighting its federal government is akin to Mandera County Government declaring war against the Republic of Kenya, yet we are now hosting these foreign forces on our soil.”
Roba cautioned that Kenya’s national interest lies in strengthening its ties with Somalia’s federal government, not in “protecting a rogue state government.”
He accused the government of recklessness and betrayal for allegedly allowing Jubaland troops to operate within Mandera.
ALSO READ:
KUPPET decry short time allocated to stakeholders in Elimu Mashinani forum in Narok
“Allowing Jubaland troops to operate in Mandera, putting Kenyan lives and property at mortal risk, are shameful and reckless. Foreign conflicts must be fought on foreign soil, not on the streets of Mandera,” he added.
The senator warned that the government would bear full responsibility for any casualties or destruction arising from the conflict.
He further hinted at possible self-mobilization by local leaders and residents if the state failed to act swiftly.
His remarks came just a few hours after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen dismissed fears of Jubaland forces operating in Mandera, insisting that Kenya’s security agencies remain in control and that there is “no cause for alarm.”
Murkomen said cross-border movements are often the result of civilians fleeing conflict in Somalia and assured that no schools in Mandera are occupied by foreign troops.
He urged local leaders not to politicize security matters, emphasizing that all complaints are under investigation.
The growing tension has triggered protests in Border Point One village, where residents claim families have been displaced and schools disrupted due to the alleged incursion.
ALSO READ:
TSC unveils nomination guidelines for 2025 examination centre managers, supervisors and invigilators
As the standoff deepens, teachers unions are calling for vigilant and quick response to protect teachers in the region.
Kenya Teachers in Hardship and Arid Areas Welfare Association (KETHAWA) National Secretary, Ndung’u Wangenye, speaking with Education News said there are frequent calls coming from teachers particularly in Mandera County asking for assistance due to tension which has been created by the forces,
“In the wake of allegations of Jubaland militias occupation in North Eastern region and frequent calls coming from our teachers particularly in Mandera County i am advising all affected teachers to personally asses their own security and safety.” He said
He added that no one should compromise his/her life when there is eminent threat to the same.
By Juma Ndigo
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
