If the deadly attack succeeds in prompting vigilante violence by Kenyan citizens or heavy-handed government reactions against Somali residents, Shabaab stands a chance of recasting itself as the vanguard militia protecting Somalis against external enemies. 
Kama shambulio hilo baya litafanikiwa kuibua vurugu baina ya raia wa Kenya au hatua nzito za serikali dhidi ya wa-Somali, basi Al-Shabaab itakuwa na nafasi ya kujitengenezea picha ya kikundi cha kijeshi kinachowalinda wa-Somali na maadui wa nje.