Kenya has formally called on the Tanzanian government to ensure the safety of its nationals following violent unrest triggered by a contested presidential election in Tanzania last week.
Kenyan Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi revealed that several Kenyans residing in Tanzania have reported being targeted during a harsh crackdown on post-election protests. The unrest erupted after President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with 98% of the vote a result that has drawn widespread allegations of electoral fraud and sparked demonstrations across the country.
In her inauguration address, President Hassan denounced the protests, attributing the violence to “foreign elements” allegedly inciting disorder.
In response, Mudavadi stated that Kenya had submitted formal complaints to Tanzanian authorities, citing violations of the rights of Kenyan citizens. He emphasized that Nairobi expects “appropriate action” to be taken. Following a phone conversation with Tanzanian Foreign Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Mudavadi confirmed that both nations have agreed to resolve the matter through diplomatic and consular channels.
“Kenya remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the rights, safety, and dignity of its citizens abroad,” Mudavadi affirmed. An estimated 250,000 Kenyans currently live, work, or conduct business in Tanzania.
Meanwhile, Tanzania’s government is facing mounting international criticism over reports of excessive force used against demonstrators. Human rights groups and opposition leaders claim that hundreds have been killed, though officials in Dodoma have dismissed these figures as “grossly exaggerated.”
A Tanzanian police spokesperson alleged that some foreigners had entered the country illegally “with the intention to commit crimes, including causing unrest.”
Back in Kenya, several families have reported losing contact with relatives in Tanzania. Others claim their loved ones have been injured, detained, or killed some allegedly by Tanzanian security forces.
