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A group of Kenyan activists has announced plans to stage demonstrations in Nairobi in support of Tanzanians raising alarm over the country’s political and human rights situation.
In a joint statement, the activists urged the international community to pay closer attention to developments in Tanzania and even suggested that President Samia Suluhu Hassan resign over what they described as a deteriorating democratic environment.
The appeal comes ahead of nationwide protests expected in Tanzania on December 9.
Among those who endorsed the statement are Africa activist Ojiro Odhiambo, Free Kenya Movement leader Bob Njagi and former Makueni governor Kivutha Kibwana. They cited reports of alleged state abuses and warned of a possible humanitarian crisis as tensions escalate.
The signatories said Tanzanians are facing growing restrictions on democratic freedoms and called for urgent action as the region awaits the protests. They confirmed that Kenyan police have been notified of their planned solidarity demonstration in Nairobi on Tanzania’s Independence Day.
“The world is watching events unfold in Tanzania,” the statement read, noting that concerns raised by Tanzanian citizens have also been echoed by international observers including the African Union Election Observation Mission, SADC, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the European Parliament, Ghana, UN special procedures and the United States.
The statement referenced allegations from religious leaders, community members, health workers and human rights defenders reporting incidents of excessive force, disappearances, intimidation and mass arrests.
It also mentioned claims — not independently verified — that hospitals had been raided and that foreign personnel might be participating in security operations.
Tanzanian authorities have previously dismissed reports of mistreatment and insist recent demonstrations contravened the law.
Kenyan activists also raised doubts about Tanzania’s newly formed commission tasked with probing the unrest, arguing that a government-led process lacks independence. They criticised official statements describing the protests as “manufactured unrest.”
According to the activists, more than 2,000 people in Tanzania are now facing charges ranging from terrorism to treason and property destruction. Lawyers representing the accused have reportedly faced threats and intimidation, raising concerns about due process.
The statement further highlighted internet disruptions, social media restrictions and the removal of online content documenting the situation, suggesting digital platforms have been pressured by authorities.
The group emphasised the importance of regional solidarity as December 9 approaches, calling for an end to violence, the release of detainees and an impartial international investigation.
They added that attempts to curtail public expression through legal and digital measures have only intensified demands for justice, urging Tanzanians to continue documenting and sharing their experiences.
