Mijikenda elders addressing journalists in Mtwapa, Kilifi County. [Photo/ Maxwell Ngala].
The Mijikenda Council of Elders has asked the government to release everyone who was jailed for being a member of the Mombasa Republican Council.The elders, led by Kilifi County chairperson Runya Ngamba, said a majority of young men in the county were arrested during the 2013 general election for no apparent reason.Speaking at Mtwapa in Kilifi on Thursday, Ngamba said over 60 young men were illegally arrested for allegedly killing residents and six police officers during 2013 elections.“Police did not release any evidence that indicated our sons were involved in the killings. They were only arrested because of illegal gatherings, we want them released,” said Ngamba.Ngamba said such incidences are what is causing a section of politicians at the Coast to call for the secession of the region.“Though we do not support secession talks, we know that the Coast region has for a long time been oppressed, we need justice,” he added.On Wednesday, the Coast Council of Clerics (CICC) Kilifi County chapter said though the secession talks were not necessary, the government should end discrimination and accord Coastal people the same justice as residents in other areas.Led by CICC Kilifi County Chairperson Faraj Mwangome, the Mijikenda elders said historical injustices were the main reason why politicians in the region are advocating for secession.“We do not support session calls but we need justice and all our young men locked up in cells released unconditionally,” said Mwangome.