Opposition party Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA) has criticised remarks attributed to President Samia Suluhu Hassan over foreign activists, arguing that the statements undermine constitutional freedoms and Tanzania’s historic role as a sanctuary for liberation movements across Africa.
In a public statement released on May 6, 2026, the party said it was “deeply disturbed” by comments allegedly made by President Samia during recent talks with Kenyan President William Ruto.
According to CHADEMA, President Samia warned against activists from Kenya entering Tanzania to engage in activism and indicated that Tanzanian activists would also not be allowed to participate in activism in Kenya.
The opposition party maintained that such a stance conflicts with constitutional guarantees on freedom of expression, movement and protection under the law.
“Articles 16, 17 and 18 of the Constitution guarantee citizens the right to express opinions, move freely and seek protection,” the statement said.
Signed by the party’s Director of Communications and Publicity, Brenda Rupia, the statement further invoked Tanzania’s liberation-era legacy under founding president Julius Nyerere, who opened the country’s doors to freedom fighters and political exiles from across the continent.
The party cited figures such as Nelson Mandela, Joaquim Chissano and Laurent Kabila as among leaders who once found refuge in Tanzania during periods of political struggle in their home countries.
CHADEMA also referenced Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga, saying Tanzania had previously hosted him and facilitated his travel to Europe at a difficult political moment.
The party argued that Tanzania earned continental respect by standing with oppressed people and political activists, and warned against abandoning that legacy.
“With great concern, CHADEMA calls on the Kenyan government not to be drawn into actions that could appear to suppress human rights in the eyes of the international community,” the statement added.
The remarks add to an ongoing regional conversation about democratic space, political freedoms and the treatment of activists within East Africa.
