Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has issued a stern warning to Kenyans reportedly planning to travel to Tanzania to take part in protests. According to what the government described as reliable information, groups from Kenya are allegedly planning to cross the border on the 29th to assist indisciplined elements in staging demonstrations in Tanzania.
“Tumepata habari za kuaminika kwamba kuna viumbe kutoka Kenya wanapanga kutiririka kuja Tanzania, tarehe 29 kuwasadia wenye utovu wa nidhamu hapa Tanzania kufanya maandamano. Tungeomba serikali ya Kenya iwazuie viumbe hao, dhidi ya kuvuka mipaka, na niwapee onyo kali, maana tutawashugulikia vilivyo.”
President Samia’s statement frames the matter as a cross-border security concern and calls on Kenyan authorities to prevent the movement of those she described as “viumbe” — a pejorative term implying disruptive outsiders — from entering Tanzania. She warned that anyone who crosses the border to foment unrest will face decisive action from Tanzanian security forces.
The warning highlights rising regional sensitivities over protests and political mobilization that spill across national borders. If the intelligence is accurate, the appeal to Kenya to stop would require coordination between security agencies in both countries to monitor border points and restrict unauthorized travel.
Political analysts say the episode could heighten diplomatic friction if not handled carefully, urging both capitals to verify intelligence, communicate transparently, and use restraint while ensuring public safety. For now, President Samia’s message is clear: Tanzania will not tolerate external interference in its domestic order and expects neighboring states to act to prevent it.
