Kenyan MP Babu Owino has written to President Samia Suluhu protesting his denial of entry into Tanzania, claiming he was detained by immigration officers in December 2024. He argues that his treatment violates his rights as an elected official in the East African Community. Owino is seeking clarification on the reasons for his exclusion.
Babu Owino, the Member of Parliament for Embakasi East, has lodged a formal protest with Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu regarding his recent denial of entry into Tanzania. In a letter dated February 3, he alleges that immigration officials at Julius Nyerere International Airport barred him from entering the country during his visit in December 2024, claiming he is on a persona non grata list.
Owino details his grievances, stating his freedom of movement was violated when he was detained upon arrival. As a citizen of the East African Community and a Kenyan MP representing Kenya in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), he believes his treatment contradicts international norms governing freedom of movement, as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
The Kenyan legislator is now seeking a formal clarification from President Suluhu on the reasons for his exclusion from Tanzania, reinforcing that his status as a duly elected official merits a special inquiry. He asserts that his ability to enter Tanzania for business or represent his constituents should be respected and seeks reassurance from the Tanzanian government regarding these rights.
Previously, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni criticized Owino over his supposed political interference in Uganda, alleging that he has supported opposing political factions. This incident of denial at the Tanzanian border marks a continuing pattern of political contention within the East African region.
The incident highlights the ongoing complexities of cross-border relations in East Africa, where political dynamics can impact freedom of movement for officials. Babu Owino’s situation reflects broader issues regarding regional cooperation among East African Community states and emphasizes the importance of adherence to human rights standards that govern entry and movement across borders. Denial of entry, particularly for elected representatives, raises questions about diplomatic protocols and international law as they pertain to member states’ obligations to one another.
The protest letter penned by MP Babu Owino underscores significant issues regarding political freedom and regional cooperation within the East African Community. His demand for an explanation from President Suluhu highlights concerns over the treatment of elected officials as well as their rights to travel and represent their nations. As regional tensions evolve, such incidents will continue to influence diplomatic relations in East Africa, necessitating clearer standards and mutual respect among member states.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
