Two Kenyans, Frederick Lorent Obuya and John Nderitu, have recounted their terrifying experience while detained in Tanzania following the country’s 2025 general elections. Speaking to the media on Sunday, Obuya, a lawyer and tour company owner, said he was traveling to Zanzibar to expand his business and celebrate his birthday when he was unexpectedly arrested.
Obuya and Nderitu were detained despite having all the necessary legal documents to be in Tanzania. After a few nights in custody, Obuya sought clarification on their release, expecting to be arraigned within two days. Instead, a police officer informed him that their case was “hard” and that they might only be released in two weeks. This revelation left Obuya overwhelmed, leading him to cry for the first time since his arrest on Saturday, November 1.
Their situation worsened after being moved to Oyster Bay Police Station. Of the ten days they spent in custody, one night was in a crowded cell with minors as young as 13, filthy toilets, sticky floors, and bedbug-infested conditions. Obuya described the experience as hopeless, admitting that he would not have survived another night there.
“The following day, I told John that it’s either we go home, sleep at the immigration office, or they kill us if they want,” Obuya said, recalling the fear and uncertainty they faced.
Their release was eventually secured after meeting the Kenyan High Commissioner in Tanzania. They were taken in a diplomatic vehicle to a hotel before being flown home on Saturday, November 8. Although the Tanzanian authorities extended their stay by seven days, both declined to remain, fearing the risk of re-arrest.
Obuya and Nderitu were among hundreds detained following the Tanzanian elections, which saw President Samia Suluhu win with over 97 percent of the vote amid nationwide protests. Their experience highlights the challenges faced by foreigners caught in politically charged environments and the importance of diplomatic intervention in ensuring safety.
