Uganda has issued an ultimatum for the release of 41 Kenyans imprisoned in the country for allegedly killing three geologists and two Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) soldiers back in April.
The East African country noted that it would only release the convicts after they identified the main suspects who perpetrated the crime.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi presented these reports while appearing before the National Assembly's Public Petitions Committee on Thursday.
He noted that the Foreign Affairs Ministry was working with its Ugandan counterparts to resolve the conflict, pointing out that President William Ruto is aware of the issue.
The Committee, led by Kitui East MP Nimrod Mbai, questioned the alignment of the Ministry's actions with the best interests of Kenyans.
Mudavadi explained that a mutual legal assistance framework exists between Uganda and Kenya under the East African Community Treaty.
This facilitates the return of suspects to the jurisdiction where the alleged crime occurred. The MPs, however, wondered whether the framework extends to the exchange of prisoners.
"In Uganda, authorities frequently detain pastoralists and fishermen on trespassing charges, often imposing fines before releasing them," Mbai stated.
The lawmakers urged Mudavadi to work with Attorney General Justin Muturi to assist in repatriating the affected Kenyans.
Further, the Committee recommended the construction of a dam for Turkana residents to address the challenges faced during drought season that compels migration to Uganda in search of water and pasture for livestock.
The 41 Kenyans were jailed back in April for contravening Section 119 of the UPDF Act, which dictates that anyone found with weapons, ammunition, or equipment that is exclusive to the armed forces is subject to military law and will be tried by a court martial.
This also includes serving military officers and civilians. The Kenyans were convicted for 8 to 20 years imprisonment in Uganda.
