MPs call off meeting over security fears

Lamu Woman Representative Ruweida Mohamed . [File, Standard]

Parliament’s committee on Regional Integration failed to meet on Friday due to security concerns in Lamu County.

The committee was to meet residents of Kiunga and Ishakani yesterday, but due to insecurity, local security officials asked them not to hold it.

Instead, the committee led by its vice chair and Lamu Woman Representative Ruweida Mohamed had to hold the meeting at the island. “We were to meet residents of Kiunga and Ishakani at the border but due to security reasons, we were told not to get there,” said Ruweida.

Last week, suspected Al Shabaab militants killed a policeman in a rocket attack at Milihoi outside Mpeketoni Township. 

The MP said insecurity is affecting the region’s development prospects. She regretted that the committee could not tour Kiunga and Ishakani as they retreat to write a report.

Kiunga and Ishakani borders Somalia. The government has banned trade between locals and businessmen from Raskiamboni in Somalia.

“We used to buy fish from Raskiamboni but had to stop after the government’s ban,” said Ruweida.

Kiunga Ward Member of the County Assembly Babaad Aboud said the committee should visit and meet the people to get views if it is to write a comprehensive report.

“If the House committee doesn’t go to Kiunga and Ishakani, then the report will be half-baked. The committee must visit the area as planned,” said Babaad.