Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has demanded an explanation from Tanzanian authorities following his detention at Julius Nyerere International Airport in December 2024. Owino, who was denied entry into Tanzania, described the incident as a violation of his rights as a Kenyan citizen and a member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).
In a formal letter to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Owino protested what he called an unjustified detention. He stated that immigration officers rejected his passport upon arrival and informed him that he was listed as "persona non grata." He was then held for about three hours before being sent back to Kenya.
Owino argued that his detention went against international agreements that guarantee the free movement of people within the East African Community (EAC). He cited the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which protect the right of individuals to travel freely between nations. Additionally, he pointed to EAC protocols that allow citizens of member states to move across borders without unnecessary restrictions.
In his letter, the legislator demanded a written explanation from President Hassan, seeking clarity on why he was denied entry. He insisted that as an elected leader, he should be able to travel for official duties, business, or personal visits without facing such obstacles.
“I am placing this special request to your office to appraise me in writing on the reasons why I am not allowed to enter into Tanzania for business, or as a representative of the people of Kenya, or as a friend of the people of Tanzania,” Owino wrote.
His detention has raised concerns about diplomatic relations between Kenya and Tanzania, as well as the implementation of EAC agreements on free movement. The MP’s demand for accountability is expected to put pressure on Tanzanian authorities to clarify their stance.
As of now, Tanzanian officials have not publicly responded to Owino’s letter. However, the incident has sparked debate on social media, with some questioning whether there were political reasons behind his detention. Others have urged the Kenyan government to seek answers and ensure that its citizens' rights are respected within the region.
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