World leaders urge Kenya to reconsider stand on refugees
Deputy President William Ruto joins other world leaders for a group photo during the ongoing Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul in Turkey. Mr Ruto said Kenya's decision to close the Dadaab refugee camp is final but world leaders including UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon have urged the government to reconsider its stand on refugees. PHOTO | DPPS
What you need to know:
- UN boss asked Kenya to review its decision.
- Other world leaders also urged DP Ruto to consider closing down the refugee camps.
- Deputy President asked the UN to boost the African Union Mission in Somalia’s efforts in fighting terrorism by providing it with adequate resources.
The United Nations has urged the government to reconsider its decision to move refugees to Somalia.
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told Deputy President William Ruto in Istanbul, Turkey, that the international community understands Kenya’s predicament.
However, he asked Kenya to review its decision as the international community plays its part in helping the country sort out the issue.
“Any nation will face challenges but we need to see the humanitarian aspect of this, human rights and the international obligation we have,” said Mr Ban. He said voluntary return of refugees to a peaceful Somalia would be the best option as Kenya explores other ways of handling the issue.
Similar remarks were made by British Secretary for International Development Justine Greening and Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Under-Secretary-General Stephen O’Brien in meetings with Mr Ruto.
The Deputy President asked the UN to boost the African Union Mission in Somalia’s efforts in fighting terrorism by providing it with adequate resources.
“We should ensure that the fight against terrorism doesn’t slow down,” he said.
Mr Ruto also asked the international community to support the electoral process in Somalia that will culminate in polls in August.
