The Kenyan High Commission in Tanzania has confirmed the release of two Kenyans who were arrested following the Tanzanian elections on October 29, 2025. Frederick Lorent Obuya, a lawyer and tour operator, and John Gitahi Nderitu, a financial professional, were taken into custody but released without charges, the High Commission announced on social media.
Ambassador Isaac Njenga, Kenya’s High Commissioner in Tanzania, personally received the two upon their release in Dar es Salaam. In a statement, the High Commission noted that Obuya and Nderitu expressed gratitude to the mission and were eager to reunite with their families.
The arrests occurred amid widespread post-election protests in Tanzania, which saw multiple detentions and a tense atmosphere in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. Obuya, 29, had been reported by activist Hussein Khalid, CEO of VOCAL Africa, to be held at the Oyster Bay Police Station with limited information available on the circumstances of his arrest.
This release follows a series of recent developments involving Kenyans detained abroad under tense political circumstances. Last month, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, allegedly abducted in Uganda on October 1, were released after 38 days in custody and handed over to Kenyan authorities at the Busia border.
Tragically, not all Kenyans caught in the post-election unrest were as fortunate. Teacher John Okoth Ogutu was killed in Tanzania on election day, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety for foreign nationals during political unrest.
The High Commission continues to monitor and provide support for Kenyans abroad amid election-related tensions, underscoring the importance of diplomatic engagement in ensuring the safety and rights of citizens overseas.
The release of Obuya and Nderitu brings relief to their families and serves as a reminder of the role of diplomatic missions in safeguarding nationals during politically sensitive periods.
