Two Kenyans still being held by Tanzanian authorities

On November 19, 2025, Kenya's Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi informed the National Assembly during a Question-and-Answer session that two Kenyan citizens are still being held by Tanzanian authorities in connection with the post-election violence following Tanzania's general elections on October 29, 2025.

 The unrest, which led to widespread protests and nearly 340 arrests on charges including treason, stemmed from allegations of electoral irregularities during the reelection of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Mudavadi assured lawmakers that the Kenyan government has intervened diplomatically, securing the release of all other detained Kenyans, and is actively providing necessary support—including legal and consular assistance—to facilitate the release of the remaining two individuals.

Earlier reports had indicated three Kenyans in custody—Samuel Kagila and Stephen Ndung'u Kimani in Arusha, and George Madila Odhiambo in Dar es Salaam—but recent updates confirm only two remain held, suggesting one may have been freed. The detainees were caught up in the chaos amid street protests met with heavy security responses.

In addition, Mudavadi addressed the tragic death of Kenyan teacher John Ogutu, who was fatally shot on October 29 around 7 p.m. in Dar es Salaam's Kinondoni District during the violence.

Despite extensive searches in Tanzanian hospitals and mortuaries, his body remains unaccounted for, prompting Mudavadi to send formal letters to his Tanzanian counterpart requesting assistance in locating and repatriating the remains. Another Kenyan, Albert Kamala—a dual citizen—was also reported killed during the unrest.

The Cabinet Secretary noted that the election-related disturbances have not significantly impacted Kenyan businesses operating in Tanzania. Official records show approximately 5,503 Kenyans residing in Tanzania, many of whom were advised to exercise caution during the period.

Tanzania's government has since established a commission to investigate the violence, with President Hassan urging leniency for those arrested. This incident occurs amid broader regional tensions, including U.S. senators calling for a review of U.S.-Tanzania relations due to the election's irregularities.