Kongamano la Mapinduzi Condemns Arrest of Tundu Lissu, Deportation of Kenyan Leaders

Pan-African movement Kongamano la Mapinduzi has condemned the recent arrest of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu and the deportation of four Kenyan figures who had travelled to observe his court proceedings.

In a strongly-worded statement, the movement described Lissu’s arrest on treason charges as politically motivated and part of a broader campaign of intimidation targeting dissenting voices ahead of Tanzania’s general elections. They expressed concern over what they termed “trumped-up charges” aimed at silencing legitimate political opposition.

The group also criticized the Tanzanian government’s deportation of former Kenyan Justice Minister Martha Karua, ex-Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, and activists Hanifa Adan and Hussein Khalid, who had traveled to show solidarity with Lissu. The four were reportedly detained briefly before being expelled from the country on May 18.

“These acts of repression are a direct assault on democratic principles, regional solidarity, and the fundamental rights of African citizens,” read the statement. Kongamano la Mapinduzi decried what it described as a violation of freedoms of movement and expression, noting that such actions undermine the East African Community (EAC) treaty and spirit of cooperation.

The movement called for the immediate release of all political detainees and urged regional governments to uphold democratic ideals and protect citizens advocating for justice.

“We stand in full solidarity with Tundu Lissu and the people of Tanzania in their quest for electoral justice,” the group declared. “We also salute the courage of our Kenyan comrades who continue to champion democracy across borders.”

Kongamano la Mapinduzi reaffirmed its commitment to pan-African solidarity, calling on African citizens and institutions to speak out against authoritarianism and support the people of Tanzania in their struggle for a fair and accountable government