Kenyans in Tanzania Assured of Safety Amid Post-Election Unrest, Urged to Observe Local Laws

The Kenyan High Commission in Dar es Salaam has reassured its citizens living in Tanzania that their safety remains a top priority, despite ongoing post-election unrest and protests in the country.

This comes after violent demonstrations broke out following the controversial general elections held on October 29, 2025, which were marred by accusations of irregularities and the exclusion of key opposition candidates.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the High Commission urged Kenyans in Tanzania to remain calm and continue with their daily activities as usual while adhering to local laws. The Commission also emphasized that it had been in constant communication with Tanzanian authorities to ensure the safety of Kenyan nationals.

“The safety and well-being of Kenyans in Tanzania are our primary concern,” said the High Commission. “We have been in talks with the Tanzanian authorities to ensure their protection during this time of unrest. We encourage all Kenyans to stay vigilant, follow the laws, and report any security concerns to the High Commission.”

The unrest in Tanzania followed the election of President Samia Suluhu, who was sworn in on October 3, 2025, after winning the election with a controversial 98% of the vote. The opposition, particularly the Chadema party, rejected the results, calling the election a “sham” and demanding fresh elections.

The protests that erupted were met with force by security authorities, and there have been reports of deaths, injuries, and arbitrary arrests, particularly among young people.

Human rights organizations, including the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC) and the Tanganyika Law Society (TLS), have condemned the violence and called on the government to halt the use of force against peaceful protesters. They also urged the government to investigate the deaths of demonstrators and hold those responsible accountable.

“Reports from multiple regions indicate that hundreds of young people have been killed, injured, or arrested in connection with the protests,” the human rights groups stated. “These incidents have severely damaged the image of the country and undermined public trust in the government.”

In response to the escalating unrest, the Tanzanian government imposed a curfew and restricted movement in some areas, including Dar es Salaam, where the violence was particularly intense. However, as of this week, the curfew has been lifted, and the High Commission has resumed normal operations.

Kenyans in Tanzania have been advised to remain cautious and report any security concerns to the Kenyan High Commission. The Commission provided a contact number (+255 22 2668285/6) for any emergencies.

The political instability in Tanzania has raised concerns within the wider East African community, particularly about the role of elections in ensuring peace and stability. The ongoing situation has also underscored the importance of respecting human rights, as well as the need for greater political transparency and dialogue.

While the violence has left many in Tanzania shaken, the Kenyan government has called for calm and for all parties to engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve the political tensions.

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