Martha Karua, Mutunga Deported from Tanzania: “They Lacked Permits,” Says Govt Amid Outrage
Among those deported were senior counsel Martha Karua, former chief justice Willy Mutunga, and Pan-African activist Lynn Ngugi. They had flown into Dar es Salaam to attend opposition leader Tundu Lissu’s treason trial.
Instead of witnessing the proceedings, they spent hours in custody at Julius Nyerere International Airport before being put on a return flight to Nairobi.
“We were invited by the Law Society of East Africa to observe the hearing,” Karua told reporters upon arrival.
More Detentions Follow
The same day, human rights activist Hussein Khalid, Hanifa Adan, and Mutunga, who arrived separately, were also detained.
They were later deported after proceedings at Kisutu Resident Magistrate Court concluded.
“Our rights were trampled. We came in peace, with purpose,” Mutunga said in disbelief.
The mass deportation triggered backlash in Kenya. Leaders and civil rights groups decried the move as a violation of East African unity and freedom of movement.
Tanzania Breaks Silence
By Wednesday, May 21, the Tanzanian government offered its explanation through a local newspaper, as quoted by Wasafi FM.
Authorities claimed the Kenyan citizens lacked required permits to conduct legal advocacy in Tanzania.
“They had no licences to perform advocacy activities,” the statement read.
Suluhu: “Tanzania Will Not Be Destabilized”
Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu backed the deportations.
She said no one—internal or external—would be allowed to meddle in Tanzania’s peace.
“We won’t allow outsiders to destabilise our country,” Suluhu warned during a televised address.
She called on security agencies to remain vigilant ahead of Tanzania’s 2025 general election.
Kenya Reacts—But Not as Expected
Kenyan Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi surprised many when he supported Suluhu’s stance.
He stated that Tanzania had a right to monitor foreign visitors.
“It’s within their jurisdiction,” Mudavadi said. “They may have crossed boundaries.”
What’s Next?
The deportation has not only strained relations but also raised questions about freedom of expression, East African cooperation, and diplomatic respect.
Human rights groups have vowed to push for accountability and protection of civic space across the region.
“We’re watching closely. The region must not slide into repression,” said one rights advocate.
Martha Karua, Mutunga Deported from Tanzania: “They Lacked Permits,” Says Govt Amid Outrage
