A Kenyan organization has expressed disapproval of President William Ruto’s upcoming trip to Tanzania, where he will address the Parliament.
In a Nairobi statement released on Monday, the group described the action as “a betrayal of Tanzanian people” and a violation of democratic values upheld in Kenya.
The organization contended that the visit occurs while Tanzania faces international criticism for its electoral process, which they characterized as deeply flawed and repressive.
The reference was made to last year’s elections, which they claimed presented Tanzanians with “a sham” rather than a fair vote.
They pointed to documented instances of violent suppression, arrests, forced disappearances, and marginalization of opposition figures, including the imprisonment of Tundu Lissu on allegations they called “fabricated treason charges.”
The statement noted that numerous international observers identified ballot manipulation, low participation rates, and an unbalanced political landscape, casting substantial doubt on the outcome’s legitimacy.
However, Ruto justified the visit, stating Kenya and Tanzania maintain “enduring cordial relations… built on mutual interests, active commerce, and a dedication to achieving prosperity.”
He highlighted the “strong bilateral relationship” between the two nations and their growing partnership to boost economic development.
During discussions with President Samia Suluhu Hassan in Dar es Salaam, the leaders oversaw the signing of eight agreements addressing infrastructure, commerce, logistics, public administration, security, and energy, which Ruto indicated would “substantively expand and enhance collaboration” between the two countries.
Linda Mwananchi cautioned that addressing the Tanzanian Parliament might lead Ruto to “affix Kenya’s approval of an illegitimate government.”
It emphasized that the Kenyan presidency represents “a symbol of our Nation’s sovereignty” and ought not to be utilized in ways that suggest endorsement of oppression.
The organization also challenged the visit’s timing, noting that Kenyans are confronting unemployment, economic hardship, and diminishing confidence in governmental leadership.
The declaration further asserted that Kenya’s regional reputation must be founded on responsibility and democratic ideals.
It warned that as the nation approaches an electoral period, any apparent association with non-democratic governments could send misleading messages, maintaining that “the people’s desires here will determine outcomes in 2027.”
Simultaneously, the group expressed solidarity with Tanzanian civilians, differentiating them from the ruling elite and recognizing their difficulties under what they termed an oppressive system.
The declaration bore the signatures of diverse leaders within the organization, including Siaya Governor James Orengo and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi.
Other signatories included Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
Also signing were Saboti MP Caleb Amisi, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, Kitutu Chache South MP Antoney Kibagendi, and Bomachoge Borabu MP Obadiah Barongo.
Additional signatories comprised Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo, Mavoko MP Patrick Makau, Kaiti MP Joshua Kimilu, Funyula MP Wilberforce Oundo, Wundanyi MP Danson Mwashako, Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga and Bumula MP Jack Wamboka,