Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Arap Sing'Oei has urged the Tanzanian government to immediately release former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and his delegation, who are reportedly detained under unclear circumstances.
Mutunga and his team - comprising Vocal Africa CEO Khussein Khalid and human rights advocate Hanifa Adan - were in Tanzania on a mission to advocate for the release of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is currently facing treason charges. Mutunga, Hanifa and Khalid were detained at the Julius Nyerere International Airport from 3am on Sunday night, as they sought entry into the East African neighbour.
By 7am on Monday, the three remained in custody of the Tanzania authorities who are yet to issue any statements on the matter.
Sing'Oei emphasized that the detention of the Kenyan delegation contravenes the foundational principles of the East African Community (EAC), which promote free movement, mutual respect, and cooperation among member states. "We strongly urge the authorities in Tanzania to release the former Chief Justice of Kenya and his delegation, in line with the norms and commitments of the East African Community," stated Sing'Oei.
