Nairobi, May 19, 2025 – The Kenyan government has formally called on Tanzania to release former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and two Kenyan human rights activists who were detained upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam.

In a statement issued on Sunday evening, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’Oei expressed concern over the detention and urged Tanzanian authorities to facilitate the immediate release of the trio. The Kenyan delegation, led by Dr. Mutunga, was reportedly in Tanzania to attend a civil society event focusing on governance and regional integration.

Sing’Oei cited provisions under the East African Community (EAC) Treaty, which guarantees freedom of movement, right of residence, and cooperation among member states. He emphasized that the detention of Kenyan nationals, particularly a respected former Chief Justice, runs contrary to the spirit of regional unity and mutual respect envisioned by the EAC framework.

“We strongly urge the authorities in Tanzania to release the former Chief Justice of Kenya and his delegation,” said Sing’Oei. “This act undermines the principles of the East African Community, especially the free movement of persons, and sends a worrying signal about civic space within the region.”

The Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed it is engaging with Tanzanian authorities through diplomatic channels to resolve the matter swiftly. Human rights groups in Kenya have also condemned the incident, calling it an infringement on civic freedoms and a disregard for international protocol involving dignitaries.

As of Monday morning, no official reason had been given by Tanzanian authorities for the continued detention of Dr. Mutunga and the activists.