Kenya has given foreign traders 90 days to put their papers in order,but hundreds of Burundians are already seeking a way out, raising uncomfortable questions about how President William Ruto’s crackdown is being interpreted on the ground.
State House has moved to clarify President William Ruto’s directive targeting foreign nationals operating small-scale businesses, announcing a 90 day window for affected traders to regularise their status.
State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed said the exercise will cover immigration status, work permits, business registration and operating licences. Government agencies will work with the affected traders and their respective embassies to facilitate compliance during the 90-day period.
However, once the 90 days expire, the government says immigration, work-permit, registration and licensing requirements will be strictly enforced in accordance with the law and due process.
The announcement comes as hundreds of Burundian nationals continue to gather at their embassy along Dennis Pritt Road in Kilimani, seeking passports and emergency travel documents to facilitate their return home. The embassy is officially located on Dennis Pritt Road, Kilimani.
The number of Burundians at the mission appeared to rise significantly on Tuesday, with reports that some had spent the night outside after failing to receive assistance on Monday. Reuters reported that hundreds were seeking travel documents amid fears over the crackdown and reports of harassment.
Although the Burundian Embassy has not issued a formal public statement on the situation, those gathered said they had been informed that arrangements would be made to facilitate their return home.
The scenes have raised questions over why Burundian nationals appear particularly anxious to leave Kenya despite the government’s 90-day reprieve and assurances that lawfully resident foreigners will be protected.
Meanwhile, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations has intensified its crackdown on individuals accused of fuelling ethnic hatred.
On Tuesday, the DCI arrested 32-year-old Kevin Oduor Otieno over alleged remarks intended to incite ethnic hatred, hostility and violence against Burundian nationals living and working in Kenya.
The suspect was arrested in connection with remarks he allegedly made at Jacaranda Grounds in Kayole during a Bunge la Mwananchi event.
The government has maintained that concerns over competition for economic opportunities cannot justify discrimination, intimidation or violence against foreign nationals. State House has also warned that only authorised government agencies have the power to enforce the law.
The 90-day clock is now ticking, with the government promising stricter enforcement when it runs out, even as some foreign nationals appear to be preparing to leave before then.
