Foster good diplomatic relations

Recently, there has been an uproar on social media after news filtered in that four Kenyans had been incarcerated in South Sudan for allegedly robbing President Salva Kiir. It was not the first time such a hue and cry had been touched off by happenings in Africa's youngest country.

In 2013, South Sudan shocked many in the region by issuing orders to expel thousands of foreign workers even before it could find its footing as an independent state.

Not long after, long-distance truck drivers started complaining of mistreatment in South Sudan and so far, 37 have been killed in the country since January.

It is not easy to tell whether the Kenyans being held in Juba actually committed the alleged offence. It is however unfortunate, if true, that they were denied the right of appeal, which any justice system should surely grant.

What is not in doubt, however, is that these recent incidents point to a possibility of weakening ties between South Sudan and her neighbours.

It is incumbent upon the Government of Kenya to ensure the safety of all Kenyans wherever they are. Thus, no effort should be spared in getting to the bottom of the matter of the four Kenyans. If it turns out they committed no offence, they should be released.