Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has strongly cautioned Kenyan human rights activists and legal professionals against interfering in the country’s internal affairs, following their attempts to attend the court hearing of opposition leader Tundu Lissu in Dar es Salaam. The president accused the deported individuals of “meddling” and warned that Tanzania would not allow its peace and stability to be undermined by outsiders.
The remarks came after high-profile Kenyan figures, including former Justice Minister Martha Karua and ex-Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, were denied entry or deported as they tried to observe Lissu’s trial. President Samia, speaking during the launch of Tanzania’s new foreign policy, emphasized that her government “will not give a chance to those who have spoiled their countries to come and spread indiscipline here.”
Lissu, leader of the opposition party Chadema, appeared in court on Monday facing charges of treason and disseminating false information—accusations stemming from his call for sweeping electoral reforms and criticism of state security forces. His case was adjourned to 2 June, with the prosecution citing the need for further investigation.
The trial, heavily policed, drew large crowds of supporters outside the court. Lissu, who survived an assassination attempt in 2017 and returned from exile to resume political activity, remains defiant, urging Tanzanians not to fear and calling for legal transparency.
Rights groups in both Tanzania and Kenya have condemned the heavy-handed response to Lissu’s case and the deportation of observers. Critics argue that the recent wave of arrests, abductions, and legal pressure on opposition figures signals a return to the authoritarian tactics seen under the late President John Magufuli.
While President Samia was initially praised for opening political space upon taking office in 2021, her recent stance has drawn concern ahead of Tanzania’s general elections in