UK bans 'corrupt' Kenyan minister

Mr Murungaru was demoted following corruption allegations

The British government has imposed a travel ban on a Kenyan minister.

The High Commission in Nairobi issued an advisory notice to major airlines, warning them not to offer air services to Transport Minister Chris Murungaru.

Earlier this year, Mr Murungaru was demoted from the powerful internal security portfolio after allegations of corruption.

The UK government had threatened to enforce a travel ban on Kenyan ministers implicated in corruption.

Visa revoked

Reporters in Nairobi say the move could spark serious diplomatic repercussions.

So far, the outspoken minister has not commented on the advisory, which was issued on Wednesday revoking his visa.

But the Kenyan government says it is seeking clarification for the reasons behind its decision to deny entry to one of the country's most high-profile ministers

The note to airlines from the British High Commission in Nairobi said that Mr Murungaru is "not, repeat not, acceptable for travel to or through the United Kingdom and should not be carried there".

Mr Murungaru is a close ally of President Mwai Kibaki, but he was demoted following allegations of corrupt procurement of security projects in the security ministry.

His close aides say he is clean and has never been involved in corruption.

The High Commission gave no reason for the action, but an offical noted that Britain had the right to refuse entry to individuals "convicted or believed to be implicated in serious crimes, including corruption".

The failure of Mr Kibaki's government to tackle corruption and accelerate economic reforms as promised during elections has strained relations with the UK and other western donors.

Former British high commissioner in Kenya, Sir Edward Clay, has bemoaned the "massive looting" of public funds by senior officials in the Kibaki administration.