Uganda and Tanzania could face new US travel restrictions alongside 34 other countries. The potential ban stems from governance issues, immigration violations, and national security concerns. A 60-day compliance window has been set for countries to meet US benchmarks before restrictions are implemented.
Uganda and Tanzania find themselves on a proposed US travel restriction list, along with 34 other countries. The potential restrictions come just two weeks after the Trump administration implemented a ban on citizens from 12 nations over national security issues. Reports suggest a total of 26 African nations, as well as some Caribbean states, Central Asian countries, and Pacific Islands, are under scrutiny.
The Washington Post revealed that the draft includes countries such as Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, and several more, totaling a concerning number of African countries. Alongside Uganda and Tanzania, nations like Nigeria, South Sudan, and Zimbabwe are included. Caribbean nations like Antigua and Barbuda, alongside Bhutan and Kyrgyzstan from Central Asia, are also on this extensive list, indicating a broader focus on potential security gaps.
The details emerged from a memo from the State Department, which was signed by Secretary of State Mark Rubio. This memo, made public recently, was shared with the governments of the countries in question. They were given a 60-day ultimatum to address specific benchmarks aimed at improving their governance and civil documentation systems. Failing to do so could result in travel restrictions.
Key reasons for the flagged countries include issues like unreliable government systems, pervasive document fraud, and high numbers of citizens overstaying US visas. Additionally, concerns were raised about nations that permit citizenship purchases without residency, and individuals displaying anti-American sentiments during their stay in the US. Countries that agree to repatriate deported nationals may receive some leniency in these proposed restrictions.
The affected nations are expected to submit action plans by Wednesday detailing how they intend to address the outlined deficiencies. While the memo did not clarify when the proposed travel restrictions may become effective, it underscores a continued tightening of immigration policies under Trump’s administration.
Back on June 5, President Trump signed an Executive Order establishing a travel ban for citizens from several countries, including Afghanistan and Iran, indicating that this draft list could change significantly in the future. There remains an air of uncertainty about who might get added next, leaving many nations grappling with the potential repercussions of these travel restrictions.
The situation is still developing as nations scramble to meet US demands, but what’s clear is that international relations, especially with the US, are at a pivotal moment, and leaders must act quickly to avoid disruption.
In summary, Uganda and Tanzania, along with 34 other nations, could soon face new travel restrictions from the US. This move follows a prior ban affecting 12 countries and is rooted in various governance and immigration concerns. The affected nations must comply with US benchmarks within 60 days to avoid the impending implications. Overall, the tightening of travel policies signals a significant shift in US immigration strategy that could impact diplomatic relations across the board.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
