Tanzanian MPs Defend President Samia Over Activists’ Deportation

• May 27, 2025

Tanzanian lawmakers have strongly defended President Samia Suluhu Hassan after growing criticism from Kenyans over the detention and deportation of two regional activists. The reaction follows the arrest of Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire, who were in Tanzania to observe court proceedings involving opposition leader Tundu Lissu.

During a heated budget debate in Parliament on Monday, Geita MP Joseph Musukuma dismissed the backlash from Kenya, accusing critics of meddling in Tanzania’s internal matters. He argued that the government acted within its rights to protect the country's national interests.

Musukuma downplayed the online criticism from Kenyans, many of whom took to social media to condemn President Suluhu’s government. “We are far ahead of them politically and intellectually. We top in everything. Speaking good English isn’t a priority for us,” he said, defending the president’s actions.

Mwangi and Atuhaire were arrested on May 18, reportedly tortured, denied communication, and later deported. Their treatment has sparked outrage across East Africa and from global human rights organisations.

Felista Deogratius Njau, a Women Representative, strongly condemned the use of artificial intelligence by some Kenyan social media users to create images mocking President Suluhu. “How can they bully our President Samia Suluhu Hassan? I condemn this behaviour because it is not acceptable in the community. Our President must be respected, not bullied,” she told Parliament.

Bunda MP Boniphace Mwita Getere also supported the president’s actions, describing her as a strong leader who acts decisively when national security is at stake. “She is not just a calm leader. She is the Commander-in-Chief, and when our country is threatened, she takes action,” he said.

The arrests have drawn concern from foreign governments and rights groups. The United States Bureau of African Affairs posted a statement on X, expressing deep concern over the reported mistreatment and calling for an investigation. The statement also noted that Atuhaire had previously been recognised by the US State Department as an “International Women of Courage” award recipient.

Amnesty International joined the call, urging Tanzanian authorities to investigate the activists’ “arbitrary arrest, torture, incommunicado detention, and forcible deportation.” The pressure continues to mount as the region watches for how the government will respond.