Why Tanzania’s Crackdown on Activists Should Worry East Africa

By: Nelly Juma

Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi was released on May 22, 2025, in Ukunda, Kwale County, after being held incommunicado for four days by Tanzanian authorities. During his detention, Mwangi was reportedly subjected to torture.

His release comes amid rising diplomatic tensions following a public warning by Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who cautioned foreign activists against “invading and interfering in our affairs.”

On Monday, Tanzanian Members of Parliament rallied behind President Samia’s stance, defending her remarks and accusing rights campaigners of attempting to interfere in the country’s internal affairs.

They described it as “imported activism” and called for tighter scrutiny and enhanced security checks for foreigners entering Tanzania.

The comments sparked outrage in Kenya, prompting a strong reaction from Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. Responding via X (formerly Twitter), Sifuna said, “Kesho italazimika Kiswahili tu bungeni ili wenzetu wa Tanzania watupate kwa njia ya uhakiki,” suggesting that Kenya’s Parliament should conduct sessions in Swahili to address the issue directly to Tanzanians.

During their parliamentary session, Geita MP Joseph Musukuma declared:

“We in Tanzania have nothing to learn from Kenya—absolutely nothing. We surpass them in politics, intelligence, and everything else. And the English language is not our priority. We have no quarrel with ordinary Kenyans, only with these activists.”

Tanzanian legislators further accused Kenyan youth of spreading violent rhetoric online, which they claim tarnishes Tanzania’s international image. They urged President William Ruto to take disciplinary action against those responsible.

In a particularly controversial remark, MP Maryam Omar questioned why People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua had been allowed to return safely from Tanzania during a past visit.

“We made a mistake by sending Martha Karua back there, and this mistake should not happen again. How can someone come here, spread ignorance, and be returned safe and sound?” she said.

Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, echoed some of the Tanzanian concerns during an interview on Citizen TV on May 20.

He accused some Kenyan activists of interfering in Tanzania’s domestic affairs, stating that President Samia’s actions were bold and intended to protect her country’s sovereignty. He added that the six Kenyans involved had “gone overboard.”

The incident continues to stir debate across East Africa, raising questions about cross-border activism, regional diplomacy, and the limits of civic engagement.