Kenya Seeks Assurances for Citizens' Safety in Tanzania Post-Election

Kenya's Foreign Minister, Musalia Mudavadi, has engaged his Tanzanian counterpart, Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, regarding the safety of Kenyan citizens residing in Tanzania. This diplomatic discussion follows reports of Kenyans being targeted in the aftermath of Tanzania's recent disputed election.

Election Context and Tanzanian Stance

President Samia Suluhu Hassan secured victory in the recent Tanzanian election with 98% of the vote. In her inauguration address, President Hassan condemned the violence that followed the polls and attributed instances of unrest to foreign individuals.

Kenyan Diplomatic Action

Minister Mudavadi confirmed that "formal reports" detailing alleged violations of Kenyans' rights have been submitted to Tanzanian authorities. During his conversation with Kombo, Mudavadi emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights, safety, and dignity of Kenyans in Tanzania. An estimated 250,000 Kenyans are believed to live, work, or conduct business in the neighboring country.

International Scrutiny and Domestic Reports

The Tanzanian government has faced international examination regarding its response to post-election protests, with reports of substantial casualties. The government has disputed the figures regarding deaths, asserting them to be exaggerated. A Tanzanian police spokesperson indicated that intelligence suggested foreign individuals had entered the country through unofficial points with intentions to commit crimes, including causing unrest.

Accounts from Citizens and Human Rights Groups

Families in Kenya have expressed concern for their relatives in Tanzania, citing reports of Kenyans killed, injured, or detained, and others allegedly sustaining injuries from Tanzanian security officers. Kenyan human rights activist Hussein Khalid stated that Tanzanian authorities are using Kenyans as "scapegoats" for actions against Tanzanian citizens. Reports include the death of John Ogutu, a Kenyan teacher in Dar es Salaam, who was allegedly shot by police, with his body reportedly untraceable for repatriation. A medical professional at Muhimbili Hospital in Dar es Salaam reported seeing vehicles marked "Municipal Burial Services" collecting bodies believed to be victims of the protests.

Kenyan Ministry's Response and Exodus

Kenya's foreign affairs ministry has requested that relatives of Kenyans potentially in distress in Tanzania provide their names, addresses, and emergency contacts. The ministry acknowledged public concern regarding the speed of tracking nationals potentially affected by the unrest. Additionally, reports suggest that many Kenyans, particularly those employed in private schools, are leaving Tanzania after the government issued warnings to employers regarding individuals without valid work permits.

Election Standards and Historical Tensions

Election observers stated that the recent polls did not meet democratic standards, although the Tanzanian government maintained the election's fairness and transparency. President Hassan's inauguration was held at a military parade ground in Dodoma, closed to the public but broadcast on state television. President Hassan, who assumed office in 2021, initially received commendation for easing political repression, but the political environment has since reportedly narrowed. Tanzania and Kenya, both members of the East African Community, have experienced periodic political and economic tensions, including a diplomatic strain in May over the treatment of Kenyan observers during a treason trial.