The Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) arrested Jubaland Minister Abdirashid Janan over “serious crimes” committed against Somalis. However, the minister escaped from custody and crossed over into Kenya.
FGS has now asked the government of Kenya to arrest and repatriate the minister. Somalia’s government is not the only one demanding Janan’s repatriation. Amnesty International has also added its voice to those asking Kenya to do what is right.
The Deputy Director for East Africa (Amnesty International), Seif Magango, said, “The fact that Abdirashid Janan continues to evade attempts to arrest and bring him to book is unfathomable. He has committed crimes under international law and violated serious human rights.”
“Kenya must not only arrest but also hand him over to FGS immediately. For its part, FGS must try him in court while adhering to international fair trial standards. His victims have been waiting for justice patiently. We must not frustrate their hopes.”
Janan escaped from custody on January 28, 2020. At first, he was suspected of returning home to Jubaland. Only later did news regarding his flight to Kenya emerge. He has been holed up in the northern Kenya town of Mandera ever since.