British MP Detained and Deported from Djibouti Over China Ties

British Conservative MP Tim Loughton was detained for over 7 hours and deported from Djibouti due to the country's close ties with China.

Loughton, who was sanctioned by China in 2021 for criticizing its human rights abuses against Uighur Muslims, was visiting Djibouti on a return journey from Somaliland when he faced scrutiny at the country's passport control.

Loughton claimed that Djibouti, which he characterized as "effectively a vassal state of China", did not want to accommodate a "troublesome MP who has been sanctioned by China" on its doorsteps. He was held in a holding room for 3 hours before being told he would be put on the next flight out of the country. The MP described the experience as "very lonely and frightening."

The British government has sought further information about the incident from the Djiboutian authorities and provided consular support to Loughton at the time. A spokesperson for the prime minister stated that while Djibouti had the right to refuse entry, the UK is seeking further details about this specific case.

Why this matters: The incident highlights the growing influence of China in Africa and the potential consequences for those who criticize its human rights record. It also raises concerns about the treatment of foreign officials by countries with close ties to China.

Loughton, who is the co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Tibet and a leading member of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, believes his treatment by Djibouti was a direct result of his criticism of China. He has warned that the West needs to "wake up" to the "malign and all-encompassing tentacles of the Chinese regime at home and abroad". The MP, who has served in parliament for over 27 years, has announced that he will not stand for re-election.

Key Takeaways

• British MP Tim Loughton detained, deported from Djibouti due to China ties
• Loughton sanctioned by China in 2021 for criticizing human rights abuses
• Djibouti characterized as "vassal state of China", unwilling to host Loughton
• UK seeks information from Djibouti, provides consular support to Loughton
• Incident highlights China's growing influence in Africa, consequences for critics