KENYAN government officials have largely inclined on the Tanzania government side on the deportation of a group of Kenyan activists, asserting that the move was legitimate defense of sovereignty and internal stability.

Isaac Mwaura, official government spokesman, said nationals must respect each nation’s laws and processes, “even as we advocate for democratic ideals,” urging calm and respect for diplomatic protocols.

He stressed that Kenya acknowledges the sovereignty of the neighboring country on the issue, being among other commentators who commended the Tanzanian authorities for their decisive action, urging Kenyans to adhere to laws of neighboring countries.

The government spokesman said that Kenya’s Foreign Affairs ministry is closely monitoring the situation and is engaging with Tanzanian counterparts to understand the circumstances leading to the deportations.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the rights and safety of Kenyan citizens abroad, thus any concerns raised would be addressed through appropriate bilateral channels.

He also cautioned against inflammatory rhetoric, appealing for responsible civic engagement, especially when dealing with issues in other countries, reaffirming Kenya's dedication to regional cooperation and mutual respect among East African states.

Foreign Affairs minister Musalia Mudavadi urged Kenyan youth to respect the laws of countries they travel to, reminding them that foreign laws must be obeyed just like those at home.

"I want to tell our youth that whenever you travel to another country, you must respect the laws of that country. That is the law that applies, and you are expected to obey it," he emphasised.

Kenyans should begin to appreciate the freedoms they enjoy at home, noting that such liberties are not always guaranteed elsewhere, he cautioned.

On Tuesday, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei expressed strong support for President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s public remarks over the deportations. “I fully support President Samia for banning Kenya's activists for trying to interfere with the domestic affairs of that country.”

International relations are grounded in mutual respect and non-interference, he said, accusing the activists of attempting to "transfer bad manners" and fuel destabilization efforts within Tanzania.

 “The activists should not transfer bad manners to Tanzania by funding destabilising there,” he stated, amid growing public debate over the incident, where former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga, top political leader Martha Karua and others were expelled after arriving to attend a court hearing involving Chadema national chairman Tundu Lissu.

President Samia had earlier addressed concerns about foreign interference, noting a trend of activists from neighboring countries attempting to meddle in Tanzania’s internal affairs.

She warned that attempts to disrupt the nation's peace would not be tolerated, asserting that Tanzania is one of the few countries in the East African region that remains with a high degree of political stability.

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