MUDAVADI ISSUES STRONG WARNING AGAINST CROSS-BORDER JUSTICE PURSUITS
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi recently cautioned Kenyans against crossing into neighboring countries in pursuit of justice, warning about the risks stemming from differences in legal and constitutional frameworks beyond Kenya’s borders.
Speaking during the opening of the Kenya Software and AI Summit 2025 at Moi University Law School, Mudavadi stressed that freedom and laws enjoyed in Kenya do not automatically apply elsewhere.
“There is a growing tendency where Kenyans leave the country without appreciating the legal terrain of the places they are going to,” he said.
“Many end up on the wrong side of the law. We emphasize that the freedom we are experiencing in this country is not the same as in other countries.”
Mudavadi highlighted a worrying trend of Kenyan youths traveling to nearby countries like Tanzania and Uganda without appreciating the legal terrain awaiting them.
He revealed that many young people have faced detention and other legal challenges after crossing borders illegally or engaging in activities such as political protests abroad.
He also urged young Kenyans to be cautious about their digital footprint, noting that other nations now review social media activity before granting visas.
“There is now a tendency for social media checks before a visa is issued,” he said. “Those found with negative content on their social media handles might lose opportunities in other countries.”
Negative online behavior can cost opportunities abroad, he warned, while positive digital conduct could open doors.
This caution followed reports of Kenyans detained in foreign countries amid protests and political unrest, underscoring the importance of respecting sovereignty and pursuing justice through lawful diplomacy.
Mudavadi reaffirmed Kenya’s diplomatic engagements with Tanzania aiming to protect Kenyans and resolve bilateral concerns through official channels.
Mudavadi’s advice calls for restraint, legal awareness, and reliance on government-led diplomacy to safeguard Kenyans abroad and preserve regional harmony.