NAIROBI, Kenya – Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has cautioned young Kenyans against crossing into Tanzania to join ongoing protests, warning that doing so could expose them to arrest and prosecution under foreign laws.
His warning follows reports of groups of Kenyan youths attempting to enter Tanzania through the Namanga and Sirare border points to take part in demonstrations sparked by a disputed election outcome.
In a video statement on Friday, Mudavadi—who also serves as the Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary—reminded Kenyans that the freedoms and rights guaranteed by Kenya’s Constitution do not automatically apply in other countries.
“You may not like the laws of other countries, but respect them. Kenya has made significant democratic and constitutional strides. Our Bill of Rights is strong, but don’t assume that everyone is on the same path,” he said, without directly naming Tanzania.
The PCS said every nation has its own political and legal frameworks and urged young people to act responsibly when travelling abroad.
“Other nations are at different stages of that journey. I encourage our young people to be cautious,” he added.
It is the second time Mudavadi has publicly warned against “exporting protests” beyond Kenya’s borders.
His remarks come amid footage showing police officers at the Kenya–Tanzania border advising groups of youths to turn back.
In one video clip widely circulated on social media, a police officer is seen pleading with young men to “avoid trouble” and return home safely.
Mudavadi also cautioned that reckless online activity could harm one’s prospects of travelling or working abroad.
“Other countries are reviewing your digital footprint before issuing visas. You cannot export Kenyan laws to another jurisdiction,” he said, urging youth to use social media responsibly.
The Prime CS further warned Kenyans against falling for fraudulent job offers overseas, citing cases where young people were stranded in Russia and the Middle East after being duped by unscrupulous recruiters.
“Some recruiters lured young Kenyans with promises of well-paying jobs in Russia. It turned out they were duped and ended up in difficult situations,” he said.
Mudavadi said his ministry’s broader goal was to protect citizens from legal and personal risks while abroad, urging those seeking employment or travel opportunities to use official channels.
“Each country has its own rules and regulations. Respect them,” he said.
