Duale tells Lamu Muslims to ignore curfew

Leader of majority in Parliament Aden Duale has told Muslims in Lamu to ignore the dusk-to-dawn curfew declared by Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo.

Mr Duale argued that the demands of Ramadhan, including early morning and evening prayers, are superior to any government order.

In a tweet on Sunday, Mr Duale said Muslims "must go to the mosques for last 10 days Ramadan prayers despite the curfew."

"Our religion is supersedes curfew order," he said.

Earlier on Sunday, Lamu County Assembly Speaker Mohamed Hashim said the curfew will adversely affect the economy of the area, as well as stop residents from adhering to Ramadhan prayers.

Mr Hashim argued that not all parts of Lamu county have been affected by the wave of insecurity and a blanket curfew is unwarranted.

He said Lamu East constituency, which includes Lamu town, Shella and Matondoni have not been affected by the attacks.

He also said the ban will affect operations of fishermen who fish at night.