Ruto apologises to Tanzania over activists’ deportation row

President William Ruto has issued a public apology to Tanzania following the arrest and deportation of Kenyan activists, an incident that has strained diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Speaking at the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast on Wednesday, said Kenya remains committed to good neighbourliness and mutual respect in the region.

“Our neighbours from Tanzania, if we have wronged you in any way, forgive us,” said President Ruto, in reference to the recent events that have sparked tension between the two nations.

He also extended an apology to Uganda and the Kenyan youth, adding, “Our friends from Uganda, if there is anything that Kenyans have done that is not right, we want to apologise. To our children, if there is any misstep, we apologise.”

Former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua were among several Kenyans who were denied entry into Tanzania and deported shortly after landing at Julius Nyerere International Airport. Activist Boniface Mwangi was detained for several days.

Human rights organisations, including the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), reported that Mwangi was subjected to torture while in custody.

He was released on May 22 and received medical attention upon his return to Kenya.

The Kenyan activists had travelled to Tanzania to attend the arraignment of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is facing charges of treason.