A US-based team of financial forensic specialists wants the Kenyan government to investigate and seize luxury homes owned by South Sudan leaders in Nairobi.
The Sentry, a non-governmental investigative unit, criticized Kenya for facilitating South Sudanese leaders lifestyles when they were involved in a civil war that has killed tens of thousands and pushed millions out of the country or to the brink of starvation.
They noted that in 2016 its analysts had publicly identified high-priced properties in both Kenya and Uganda acquired by some South Sudanese leaders.
These homes were noted to be in exclusive neighbourhoods in Nairobi and Kampala and alleged they may have been bought with the proceeds of corruption.
[caption caption="South Sudan's President Salva Kiir (front L) and rebel commander Riek Machar "]
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“What will it take for Kenyan and Ugandan officials to investigate and then seize houses and other assets determined to be the proceeds of corruption in order to apply desperately needed pressure on South Sudan’s peace spoilers?” the NGO questioned.
The group's argued that Kenya and Uganda have failed to investigate possible corrupt international dealings.
This week by a US Treasury Department official who heads a financial intelligence unit Sigal Mandelker, urged officials in Nairobi to close outlets that allow transfer of illicit funds from South Sudan.
The Sentry stated that information it provided led Australian authorities to initiate the seizure of a Melbourne home owned by former South Sudanese Gen James Hoth Mai.
The group is urging the Kenyan government to “follow Australia’s model to investigate unexplained wealth” and take necessary action on the leaders.
South Sudan President Salva Kiir owns a family home in Nairobi's Lavington estate, as does South Sudan rebel chief Riek Machar, The Sentry revealed.
While Paul Malong, a former chief of staff of the South Sudan army, owns a Ksh200 million mansion in the gated Nyari Estate.
[caption caption="South Sudan's President Salva Kiir and rebel commander Riek Machar "]
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Malong, led an army accused of massive human rights violations, also owns two luxury homes in Uganda, The Sentry stated.
