MPs hit out at Kenyan activists
DODOMA: MEMBERS of Parliament (MPs) have strongly condemned a group of Kenyan activists for allegedly attempting to disrupt peace in Tanzania and for using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to produce derogatory caricatures of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
A group of Kenyan activists took to social media with demeaning messages aimed at Tanzania and President Samia Suluhu Hassan, following the denial of entry to some individuals and the deportation of others who had attempted to attend the treason trial of CHADEMA Chairman, Tundu Lissu.
While contributing to the 2025/2026 budget proposal for the Ministry of Home Affairs in Parliament yesterday, several lawmakers expressed outrage, condemning the activists’ actions as an unacceptable intrusion into Tanzania’s internal affairs and a disrespectful affront to the country’s Head of State.
“We have no problem with Kenyans. Our issue is with certain Kenyan activists who want to meddle in our internal matters,” said Joseph Musukuma, MP for Geita Rural.
“They should come to Tanzania to learn. They should come as tourists—not to test our patience,” he added, commending the police and other security agencies for their handling of the situation.
Musukuma went on to state: “We stand firmly with the President on her national security statement. Tanzania is a sovereign nation—we do not collaborate with any country on domestic affairs. As MPs, we will never accept our President being insulted.”
He continued, “As Tanzanians, we have nothing to learn from the activists. I urge our defence and security forces not to permit those individuals (activists) into our country.”
Jesca Msambatavangu, MP for Iringa Urban, echoed these sentiments, emphasising Tanzania’s tradition of peace. “We do not accept neighbours coming here to disrupt our peace. W
e are an island of peace, surrounded by countries with ongoing unrest,” she remarked. Kasalali Mageni, MP for Sumve (Kwimba District, Mwanza), underlined the importance of national security, arguing; “Tanzania is our only home. I left home in safety and I expect to return in safety.”
He praised the police and security organs for reinforcing national stability and urged the Minister for Home Affairs to prioritise the welfare of officers—ensuring timely promotions, improved housing and payment of entitlements such as holiday allowances.
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“It is unacceptable for police officers to live in rented accommodation among civilians. How can an officer arrest their landlord if they owe rent?” Mageni questioned.
“President Samia is not against activism. She opposes foreign interference in Tanzania’s internal affairs,” remarked Bunda lawmaker, Boniface Getere, clarifying the President’s stance on activism.
He also praised Tanzania’s ranking in the Global Peace Index, noting its leadership in the East African region.
For his side, Member of Parliament for Singida West, Elibariki Kingu, issued a strong warning to the deported activists, asserting Tanzania’s resolve against external incitement.
“They must never return to Tanzania. This is not a haven for provocateurs. We will protect our nation fiercely and at great cost— with God’s help.”
Other MPs who condemned the online insults and caricatures of the President included Felister Njau (Special Seats) and Tauhida Gallos (Special Seats MP, West Region, Zanzibar).
The government recently deported several Kenyan activists who had travelled to attend the trial of Tundu Lissu, who is facing treason charges.
In a recent address, President Samia Suluhu Hassan reaffirmed her government’s commitment to human rights but warned that foreign activists would not be tolerated.
“Do not allow ill-mannered individuals from other countries to cross the line here,” she told security forces during a public event.
Speaking at the launch of Tanzania’s new foreign policy in Dar es Salaam, President Samia reiterated that she would not tolerate external efforts to undermine the country’s peace and stability
