A group associated with Kenya’s opposition party Orange Democratic Movement has criticized President William Ruto over his planned address to Tanzania’s parliament during his official visit.
The group, linked to the “Linda Mwananchi” democracy movement and comprising several opposition politicians, said the visit risks portraying Kenya as endorsing what it described as a “troubled democratic process” in Tanzania.
In a statement to the media, the group questioned the timing of the visit, citing ongoing concerns about the country’s political climate and the treatment of opposition figures.
“By addressing Tanzania’s parliament, Ruto risks placing Kenya’s stamp of legitimacy on a government and an electoral process that remains under question,” the statement said.
The group is associated with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and several opposition member of parliament, who argue that Kenya should maintain a firm stance on democratic principles across the East African region.
The statement specifically referenced the detention of opposition leader Tundu Lissu and raised concerns over what it described as a broader crackdown on government critics.
“In such circumstances, a high-level address by a head of state risks being interpreted as an endorsement of a contested process and marks a departure from Kenya’s long-standing commitment to democratic values,” the group added.
It also pointed to past tensions involving Kenyan activists who were allegedly mistreated while in Tanzania, saying such issues should not be overlooked.
President Ruto arrived in Dar es Salaam on Monday for an official state visit and is expected to address Tanzania’s parliament on Tuesday morning in Dodoma.
According to Kenyan government officials, the speech is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties, trade, and regional cooperation between Kenya and Tanzania.
