By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, May 17, 2026 - A faction linked to ODM’s Linda Mwananchi movement has criticised President William Ruto over his planned address to the Tanzanian Parliament, arguing that the visit risks portraying Kenya as supportive of what they described as a troubled democratic process in the neighbouring country.
In a strongly worded statement released on Monday, the group questioned the timing of the President’s visit, coming amid continued scrutiny over Tanzania’s political environment and treatment of opposition leaders.
“By addressing the Tanzanian parliament, Ruto is attempting to place Kenya’s stamp of legitimacy on a fraudulent regime and electoral process,” the statement read.
The faction, associated with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and several opposition lawmakers, argued that Kenya should remain firm on democratic values and avoid actions that could be interpreted as endorsing contested elections in the region.
According to the group, international observer missions raised concerns over Tanzania’s last election, including claims of intimidation, arrests and restrictions on opposition activity.
The statement specifically referenced the detention of CHADEMA opposition leader Tundu Lissu and allegations of suppression of dissent.
“In such a context, a high-profile presidential address risks being interpreted as an endorsement of contested processes and a troubling departure from Kenya’s longstanding commitment to democratic values,” the group stated.
The faction also revisited recent tensions involving Kenyan activists in Tanzania, claiming some leaders in the Tanzanian Parliament mocked activists who had allegedly faced mistreatment while in the country.
“We have also not forgotten that it was on the floor of the Tanzanian Parliament, where Kenyan activists who were brutalised in Tanzania were mocked repeatedly,” the statement said.
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“We must therefore question the intent and timing of this address.”
At the same time, the group linked the matter to Kenya’s own political future, warning against what it termed as dangerous regional political trends ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“Kenya is neither Tanzania nor Uganda, and the wishes of the people here will prevail in 2027,” the statement added.
The Linda Mwananchi faction further said it was distancing ordinary Kenyans from the planned parliamentary address.
“The Linda Mwananchi leadership condemns in the strongest terms possible this planned address to the Tanzanian parliament, and dissociates the Kenyan people from it entirely,” the statement said.
President Ruto arrived in Dar es Salaam on Monday for an official State visit and is expected to address the Tanzanian Parliament on Tuesday morning.
According to State officials, the address will focus on strengthening cooperation, trade and regional ties between Kenya and Tanzania.