Kenya: Opposition leader to return May 16 /update 2

Event

Opposition leader Miguna Miguna announced his intention to return to Kenya on Wednesday, May 16. The last time Miguna attempted to enter the country he was denied entry and flown back to Dubai where he ultimately returned to Canada. Protests by opposition supporters in support of Miguna are possible in the coming days, particularly in Kisumu and Nairobi.

Context

Miguna was detained at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi on March 26 while attempting to return to Kenya from Canada. Violent protests broke out in Kisumu on March 28, which disrupted traffic along major roads. Miguna had been deported to Canada in February after he was found to have failed to follow administrative procedures after receiving Canadian citizenship several years ago; however, his deportation also came amid a crackdown on opposition politicians who had taken part in a symbolic “inauguration” of opposition leader Raila Odinga after the latter lost last year’s presidential election to incumbent President Uhuru Kenyatta. Miguna was ultimately deported by Kenyan authorities on March 29 to Dubai. According to Miguna, unidentified individuals assaulted him at NBO before drugging him and forcefully putting him on a plane.

Advice

Individuals in Kenya, particularly in Nairobi and Kisumu, are advised to avoid all public gatherings (especially political events) due to the risk of violence and to monitor the situation.