Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has defended his recent remarks regarding the alleged torture of Kenyans in Uganda and Tanzania, saying his comments were made in good faith as a cautionary message.
Cherargei clarified that his statement was intended to protect the interests of Kenyans living, working, or studying in neighbouring countries. “It was a cautionary statement, and as a leader, I am well aware of that statement. It remains as is and it was made in good faith,” he said.
He further explained that his comments were aimed at “busybody activists” who, according to him, misrepresented his position. “As a leader, I was just advising our busybody activists to keep off, but the rest of Kenyans doing business, those studying or married, or going to marry abroad, have nothing to fear,” Cherargei added.
The senator’s initial remarks had sparked widespread debate on social media and criticism from civil society groups, who accused him of making statements that could strain diplomatic relations. Cherargei, however, emphasized that he did not intend to incite tension between Kenya and its East African neighbours.
In the wake of recent protests in Tanzania, Cherargei urged Presidents Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and Samia Suluhu of Tanzania to act against Kenyan activists he accused of exporting “bad manners” by interfering in local politics. He stressed that while Kenyans enjoy close social and economic ties across the East African Community through education, business, and marriage, this does not extend to political interference.
“The Kenyan activists who export ‘bad manners’ of interference with the local politics to our neighbouring countries must stop immediately,” Cherargei said, appealing directly to the two heads of state to punish and repatriate those involved.
He reiterated that citizens of EAC partner states can freely interact and mix, but political meddling remains unacceptable. Cherargei’s remarks highlight the ongoing debate about the role of activists and cross-border political campaigns in the region, stressing the need for respect for national sovereignty and peace.
