Faith Nyasuguta
The United States has repatriated Mohammed Abdul Malik Bajabu, a Kenyan detainee held at Guantanamo Bay for nearly 20 years, reducing the prison’s population to 29.
Bajabu, detained in 2007 on allegations of ties to the Somali militant group al-Shabab and suspected involvement in the 2002 Mombasa attacks, was never formally charged or tried. The Mombasa incidents included the bombing of an Israeli-owned hotel and an attempted missile attack on an Israeli airliner. Despite the gravity of the accusations, his prolonged detention without trial became emblematic of the controversies surrounding Guantanamo Bay.
Bajabu’s release aligns with President Joe Biden’s commitment to closing the Guantanamo Bay facility, which has long been criticized for indefinite detention and human rights abuses. The facility, established after the September 11 attacks, has been a focal point of global debates on justice, human rights, and counterterrorism.
The Biden administration has prioritized reducing the detainee population through transfers and diplomatic negotiations. Bajabu’s repatriation was secured with assurances from the Kenyan government about his monitoring and reintegration to mitigate security concerns.
The transfer has elicited mixed reactions. Human rights advocates view the move as a step toward ending indefinite detention, highlighting its violation of international law and due process. Advocacy groups have praised the decision, emphasizing the importance of justice over prolonged imprisonment without trial.
On the other hand, critics argue that releasing detainees suspected of terrorism-related activities could pose security risks. Concerns persist about the possibility of former detainees rejoining extremist networks, underscoring the delicate balance between justice and security.
Guantanamo Bay has been a symbol of the excesses of the “war on terror,” with reports of torture and abuse tarnishing its reputation. Efforts to close the facility began during Barack Obama’s presidency but faced significant legal and political hurdles. The Trump administration largely stalled these efforts, leaving the prison’s future uncertain.
President Biden’s renewed focus on addressing Guantanamo’s legacy has reignited discussions about its role in counterterrorism. His administration has worked to identify detainees eligible for transfer or prosecution, aiming to resolve their status and move closer to closing the facility.
Bajabu’s return to Kenya marks progress in Biden’s vision, but challenges remain. With 29 detainees still held at Guantanamo, the administration must navigate complex legal, political, and security dynamics to fulfill its closure objectives.
This development signals a shift in US policy, reflecting the ongoing effort to reconcile national security with principles of justice and human rights. Bajabu’s release may be one of many steps needed to close this controversial chapter in American history.
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