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In a public statement issued to uphold standards of administrative transparency, the Somali Deputy Prime Minister voluntarily returns Kenyan passport documentation to the relevant authorities of the Republic of Kenya to ensure complete clarity in his official responsibilities. Hon. Jibril Abdirashid Haji, who serves as Deputy Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia, released a formal declaration confirming that he has handed back the travel document previously issued to him. Addressing recent public scrutiny and media reports surrounding his travel credentials, Haji emphasized that the document was genuine and lawfully obtained in full compliance with established procedures, noting that the decision to relinquish it was an entirely voluntary administrative measure rather than the result of any legal dispute or official demand.
The public clarification follows recent diplomatic and immigration inquiries at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where reports previously indicated that Kenyan immigration officials had raised questions regarding dual documentation status during a routine transit check. In his statement, Haji sought to resolve lingering ambiguity surrounding his citizenship records, reiterating that his voluntary surrender of the passport reflects a personal dedication to public service integrity and absolute commitment to his executive post in Mogadishu. He reaffirmed his steadfast loyalty to the Federal Republic of Somalia, stating that holding public office requires unwavering transparency regarding national allegiances and official travel documentation.
Despite the administrative adjustments, the Deputy Prime Minister expressed profound gratitude toward the Government and people of Kenya for their longstanding hospitality, strategic partnership, and historical support extended to the Somali community. Relations between the two neighboring East African nations remain deeply interconnected through shared bilateral trade, border security cooperation, and joint regional counterterrorism initiatives. Haji emphasized his ongoing respect for Kenya’s state institutions, noting that his administrative decision is intended to bolster mutual trust, uphold professional standards, and further strengthen the enduring diplomatic ties binding Mogadishu and Nairobi.
Diplomatic observers note that senior government officials across the Horn of Africa frequently navigate complex administrative procedures regarding dual nationality and official travel credentials. By voluntarily returning the document, Haji aims to set an administrative precedent regarding transparency for public office holders serving within Somalia’s federal government. Federal authorities in Mogadishu have consistently emphasized the importance of maintaining rigorous ethics and institutional governance as the administration continues to implement comprehensive public sector reforms.
Moving forward, as the Somali Deputy Prime Minister voluntarily returns Kenyan passport documentation to Kenyan authorities, official diplomatic engagement between Somalia and Kenya remains focused on shared regional stability and economic collaboration. Political analysts suggest that the proactive step clarifies Haji’s legal standing while preventing administrative misunderstandings from impacting bilateral cooperation. As both nations continue working together on regional integration and joint security operations, the clear resolution of this travel document matter reinforces professional standards and mutual respect across East Africa’s diplomatic landscape.