A diplomatic crisis is looming between Kenya and Tanzania after an elected Member of Parliament made threats to Foreign traders selling wares at Nairobi’s Kamukunji Market.
Charles Njagua Kanyi, better known by his stage name Jaguar, is a singer, entrepreneur, politician and philanthropist. He was filmed threatening traders of Tanzanian and Ugandan origin. He lamented that their presence in the market is making it hard for Kenyan traders to earn a living from their sales. Jaguar is in police custody and is expected to appear before court, despite claiming he was “misunderstood”
Jaguar Apologizes over inciteful remarks against Foreigners
Already, Tanzanian High Commission has been summoned to explain the clearly Xenophobic remarks. This could add salt to the already straining relations between Kenya and its neighbours.
Recently, Kenya got into a tussle with Somalia over claim to a disputed maritime boundary, that was apparently rich in oil and gas deposits.
Uganda on the other side, is in dispute with Kenya over Migingo Island, located in Lake Victoria. The dispute has seen Kenyan fishermen undergoing constant torture and harassment by Ugandan authorities. At one time, Ugandan flag was spotted flying high on the island.
These disputes could however strain the efforts in trying to put together the East African Community. A strong block that could propel East Africa in terms of economic growth.
