The Linda Mwananchi team has criticised President William Ruto over his planned official visit to Tanzania, where he is expected to address the Tanzanian Parliament.
In a statement issued on Monday, May 4, the group raised concerns about the timing of the visit, arguing that it comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Tanzania’s recent political developments, particularly the treatment of opposition figures following the country’s elections.
Linda Mwananchi noted that the visit risks undermining democratic principles, citing allegations of irregularities in the electoral process, including claims of violence, arrests, and intimidation targeting opposition leaders and their supporters.
Linda Mwananchi team criticises Ruto over planned Tanzania visit and parliamentary address. Photo: Courtesy.
The group maintained that such developments fall short of the standards of a free and credible election, urging a more cautious and principled approach in engaging with the neighbouring country.
They cited findings from the African Union Election Observation Mission, which indicated that Tanzania’s elections fell short of AU principles, normative frameworks, and international standards.
The group also referenced concerns raised by United Nations human rights experts and Secretary-General António Guterres over alleged extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and mass arbitrary detentions targeting protesters and opposition figures.
Further observations from the Southern African Development Community pointed to low voter turnout, alleged ballot irregularities, and an uneven political environment following the disqualification of key opposition candidates.
Additionally, the team noted that a coalition of Western observer missions, including representatives from the United Kingdom and France, had raised concerns over reported electoral violence and claims of concealment of bodies, arguing that these issues undermined the credibility and fairness of the electoral process.
The Linda team warned that President Ruto’s planned address to the Parliament of Tanzania could be seen as legitimising a contested political process in Tanzania.
The group moreover raised concerns over past remarks in the Tanzanian Parliament following the alleged mistreatment of Kenyan activists, describing the incident as troubling and reflective of deeper issues.
Additionally, it questioned the timing of the visit, arguing that such an engagement appears misplaced given the pressing domestic challenges facing Kenyans, including unemployment, the high cost of living, and declining confidence in governance.
Linda Mwananchi directed a message to Tanzanians, stating that its criticism is aimed at the country’s ruling establishment and not its citizens.
The movement expressed solidarity with the people of Tanzania while raising concerns about governance and democratic practices.
The group reaffirmed support for the ideals of the East African Community, including regional integration and improved livelihoods, while emphasizing the distinction between the leadership and the citizens.
It also distanced the Kenyan public from Ruto’s planned address to the Tanzanian Parliament.
President Ruto is scheduled to address the Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania on Tuesday, May 5.
