Tanzanian Women Denied Entry to Kenya, Raising Political Concerns

Three Tanzanian women, guests of the East African Law Society, were denied entry into Kenya on May 18, 2025, sparking concerns about political motivations. The women, who were in Kenya to observe the trial of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu, expressed their shock and frustration at the airport. "We thought that as citizens of Jumuiya, we were free," one of the women stated in a video recording. Martha Karua, a prominent Kenyan human rights activist, has publicly stated that the denial of entry was politically motivated. This incident raises concerns about freedom of movement and political interference within the East African Community. The Tanzanian government is yet to issue an official statement.