Court blocks govt from deporting journalist

The High Court has declared null and void a decision by the government to declare a British investor and journalist a prohibited immigrant for engaging in subversive activities has been nullified.

The court further directed the Immigration Department to extend the foreigners work permit to enable Hannan Lucy Elizabeth finalize all pending applications including that of citizenship for a further two years.

Justice Isaac Lenaola quashed the October 16, 2013 resolution to pronounce Hannan Lucy Elizabeth persona non granta saying it was irrational and improper.

The court ruled that the move by the State is an example of erratic, irrational and unlawful conduct as no evidence was adduced to show that Elizabeth is a threat to Kenya’s national interest.

Elizabeth is a financier in the film industry and closely works with non-governmental organizations.

She was involved in documenting the 2008 Post Election Violence and the disputed 2013 General Election.

In the case, Hannah sued the government for making the pronouncement, refusing to renew her work permit and threatening to deport her despite meeting all legal requirements.

She argued that she had a legitimate expectation to continue staying in the country since she has been residing and working in Kenya as a human rights journalist since 1988.

Elizabeth, together with human rights activist Maina Kiai, are the founders and directors of Inform Action Limited (IFA), a Media Production Company.