Kenya Blocks Citizens From Joining Tanzania Protest Chaos

Kenya and Tanzania have increased security along their border to stop Kenyans from joining planned protests in Tanzania.

Oloililai Deputy County Commissioner Andrew Mwiti said on Monday that Kenya will block anyone trying to cross the border to incite violence or take part in the demonstrations.

He spoke during a neighbourhood security meeting in Longido District, Arusha.

Mwiti noted that the authorities are ready to act.
“We will stop anyone planning to join the demonstrations. These protests are illegal,” he said.

Arusha Regional Commissioner Amos Gabriel Makalla also said Tanzania will maintain peace so that people can continue with their daily activities.

Makalla added that the Namanga border remains open for business and secure for travellers from both countries.

Human rights groups and youth activists had planned the protests for December 9, Tanzania’s Independence Day. They want justice for people allegedly killed in the October 29 election violence.

Tanzania earlier accused some Kenyans of joining the unrest. Kenya later said it would stop its citizens from taking part in any protests across the border.

President Samia Suluhu’s government then cancelled Independence Day celebrations. It advised citizens to remain at home instead.

“The government advises all citizens without urgent plans on December 9 to stay home and celebrate Independence Day from there,” Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba said.

By midday on December 9, major towns in Tanzania were empty as police warned that they would arrest anyone loitering without a valid reason.