Closure of Dadaab is not against law, says AG Githu Muigai

NAIROBI: The closure of Dadaab Refugee Camp will go on as planned without contravening the international humanitarian law, the Government has said.

Attorney General Githu Muigai said the decision to repatriate the refugees is one designed to balance between the country's security interests and her obligations under the international human rights laws and conventions.

He said the country had taken great strides under the African Union Mission in Somalia (Amisom) framework to liberate large parts of Somalia.

And as such, he added, an increasingly stable, safe and secure environment had been created in Somalia.

"The Government has for many years and at times on its own played a significant part in ensuring peace and stability returns to Somalia. It is important to note that this decision is also based on the practical realities of protracted refugee statuses that have had adverse effects on socio-economic and political circumstances of host nations and especially in Kenya," said Prof Githu.

The AG was speaking at the opening of the 4th Regional Seminar on National Implementation of International Humanitarian Law at the Kenya School of Government in Nairobi, yesterday.

He said since the setting-up of the camp in the 1990s, the Northern Kenya region had been clouded in controversy, ranging from illicit trade in goods and weapons, general insecurity and of late terrorism.

Muigai said Kenya's focus had over the years shifted from humanitarian assistance to camp management and organisation, including security provision, urban planning and infrastructure development, which had not been envisaged in the Government's plans.

The meeting sought to review the implementation status of the international humanitarian law, which has continued to play an important role in the world.

Kenya has played a key role in resolving conflicts and restoring peace within the African continent.