Justin Muturi pressures Ruto’s govt to airlift Kenyans in Middle East free of charge
By Aloys Michael, March 6, 2026Former Attorney General Justine Muturi has sharply criticised President William Ruto’s administration over claims that Kenyans stranded in the conflict-hit Middle East may be required to cater for their own evacuation costs, warning that the government must take full responsibility for the safety of its citizens abroad.
Speaking on Friday, March 6, 2026, during the United Alternative Government rally in Meru, Muturi accused the government of failing in its duty to protect Kenyans working in the region, particularly those in Gulf states who may be caught up in the crisis.
“STOP CHARGING KENYANS ESCAPING WAR, EVACUATE THEM NOW. It is both immoral and deeply insensitive to subject Kenyans fleeing war and bombardment to any form of financial charge in order to return to their own country.There are Kenyans working in Gulf countries such as Iran. I told you (Ruto), a responsible government releases aeroplanes immediately without charging,” Muturi said, reiterating his earlier X post.
He insisted that the government must act swiftly to evacuate citizens without placing financial burdens on them.
“We are cautioning you, let us not see any Kenyans die in the Middle East because you want those stranded there to pay fare. Across the world, responsible governments are already waiving evacuation and transport fees to ensure the safety of their citizens during times of crisis. Kenya cannot afford to lag behind when the lives of its people are at stake. William Ruto must take note of the decisive actions being taken by other leaders to protect their citizens and act with the same urgency, responsibility, and compassion for Kenyans trapped in danger,” he demanded.
Sending rescue planes
Muturi argued that a government committed to safeguarding its people would deploy several aircraft to evacuate nationals immediately once security concerns arise.
“A responsible government should take five to ten aeroplanes to repatriate stranded Kenyans. If not, we will hold you accountable for any deaths that might occur,” he warned.
Government latest advisory
His remarks come shortly after the government issued an advisory to more than 500,000 Kenyans living and working across the Middle East following the escalation of hostilities in the region.
In a statement released on Friday, March 6, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs said the safety and welfare of Kenyan nationals remained a top priority as authorities monitor developments closely.
“The Ministry’s leadership, led by the PCS and CS for Foreign Affairs, remains in close contact with the seven missions and two consulates-general across the region and is receiving regular updates on the welfare of Kenyan nationals and the security of our diplomatic personnel and facilities,” the statement read.
According to the ministry, seven days into the conflict, there had been no reported casualties or injuries among Kenyan citizens in the affected countries. Officials said most Kenyans continued with their daily routines, including work and studies, depending on the security situation in their respective locations.
However, Kenyans wishing to leave the region were advised to make travel arrangements through commercial airlines or licensed travel agents, where conditions allow safe movement.
The government also revealed that Kenya Airways had begun utilising secure air corridors negotiated with relevant authorities to facilitate the repatriation of Kenyans who might be stranded in conflict zones.
Authorities said the airline would play a key role in ensuring safe travel for citizens who opt to return home.
At the same time, the government maintained that it remains in constant communication with Kenya’s diplomatic missions across the Middle East to monitor the welfare of its citizens.
“All Kenyan missions have activated emergency and contingency response mechanisms, including evacuation plans, should the security situation deteriorate further,” the ministry said.
Kenyans in the affected countries have been urged to remain vigilant, maintain close contact with Kenyan embassies and consulates, and follow guidance issued by host governments.
They have also been encouraged to register with diplomatic missions to ensure they can receive emergency assistance should the situation worsen.