MP defends MRC funders, police probe politicians and tycoons

By Patrick Beja and Philip Mwakio

 Nominated MP, Sheikh Mohamed Dor, has vehemently defended politicians and business tycoons accused of funding separatist group, the Mombasa Republican Council (MRC).

Sheikh Dor also appealed to Internal Security Minister Katoo ole Metito to invite MRC representatives to a leaders’ peace meeting in Mombasa on Monday.  Speaking after the launch of the Unity Party of Kenya (UPK) at Chandaria Hall in Mombasa on Saturday, Sheikh Dor said since the High Court had lifted the ban on MRC, anybody could fund it.

Legitimate concerns

“MRC has not approached me for funding, but I can assist the movement if they do so because it has been legitimised by the court,” he said.

He was quick to point out that he did not know the financiers, but said they ‘should not be treated as criminals’.  Sheikh Dor who is eyeing the Mvita parliamentary seat said Kenyans or even foreigners could finance MRC.

To discuss the violence that has been witnessed recently at the Coast, the Internal Security ministry has called for a meeting with local leaders at the Mombasa Government Training Institute to address the emergence of gangs including MRC, which has threatened to disrupt national examinations and the General Election. Sheikh Dor claimed MRC is campaigning for land rights and jobs, consequently, should be invited to tomorrow’s meeting.  Sheikh Mohamed Khalifa said successive government had ignored the Coast region. “This new party acts as the vessel to that will unite Kenyans and end marginalisation,” he said.

The Director of Criminal Investigation Department Ndegwa Muhoro said they were investigating financiers of MRC.  Sheikh Dor said he was opposed to attempts by some MPs to push for Sh9.4 million send off perk for each of them.