President William Ruto has extended a formal apology to Tanzania following a recent diplomatic fallout triggered by the arrest and deportation of Kenyan activists.
Addressing the nation during the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast on Wednesday, President Ruto emphasized Kenya’s commitment to maintaining respectful and cooperative relations with its neighbours.
“To our brothers and sisters in Tanzania, if we have wronged you in any way, we ask for your forgiveness,” he said, alluding to the recent incident that has stirred tensions between Nairobi and Dodoma.
President Ruto also took the opportunity to reach out to Uganda and Kenya’s younger generation, expressing remorse for any perceived missteps. “To our friends in Uganda, and to the youth of Kenya if we have erred, we sincerely apologise,” he added.
The diplomatic strain follows the deportation of several Kenyan figures, including former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and opposition leader Martha Karua, who were denied entry into Tanzania after arriving at Julius Nyerere International Airport. Prominent activist Boniface Mwangi was also detained for several days.
Human rights groups, including the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), allege that Mwangi was mistreated while in custody. He was released on May 22 and received medical care upon returning to Kenya.
The Kenyan delegation had travelled to Tanzania to show solidarity with opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is currently facing treason charges.
The incident has sparked widespread concern among regional human rights advocates and placed a spotlight on the delicate balance of diplomacy and activism in East Africa.
