American authorities have deported "wedi Tukul" to Eritrea, according to Eritreans who work at the airport in Washington, DC.

"Wedi Tukul" is arguably the best known Eritrean musician the Eritrean Revolution produced and his songs were crucial in mobilizing support for the Eritrean People Liberation Front (EPLF), now People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), the ruling party in Eritrea.

After Eritrean indpendence, Wedi Tukul had several run-ins with the PFDJ, resulting in no fewer than two imprisonements.  Each time, he was released because he is a huge asset to the party: his concerts draw thousands of Eritreans.  The proceeds from the concerts, all in hard currency, are then routed to the PFDJ.

Wedi Tukul had been touring North America for months now and was expected in Northern California for the Independence celebrations. His deportation is likely due to an expired visa.   After "9-11", the United States immigration office has been diligent in enforcing its immigration policies, particularly with respect to citizens who come from "Muslim" nations that are on the government's list. 

In an effort to court the favor of the United States, some believe the PFDJ has exaggerated its "jihad problem."  Consequently, Eritrea is on the list of "Muslim" nations and men of a certain age group from Eritrea are closely watched by US authorities, regardless of their religion.