DODOMA, Tanzania — Tanzanian authorities have defended their decision to detain and deport several activists, citing alleged involvement in what they describe as “foreign-funded networks” aimed at destabilizing the country.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Tanzania Police Force said it had acted in coordination with national security agencies to monitor individuals and organizations it accuses of operating under the guise of civil society but with underlying political motives.
“Preliminary findings point to coordination and support from organisations based outside the country, including entities known to operate under civil society banners but with political intentions,” said the police spokesperson. “Some of these networks are directly linked to previous incidents in neighbouring countries and are financed by institutions such as the Open Society Foundation.”
Though the statement did not name the individuals detained or the organisations they were affiliated with, the police insisted that Tanzania would not tolerate external interference in its domestic affairs.
“No nation will allow its domestic affairs to be manipulated by external actors under any guise,” the statement read.
The deportations come amid growing concern among regional human rights groups over shrinking civic space in East Africa.
Critics argue that the Tanzanian government is increasingly using national security as a pretext to crack down on dissent and civil society.
However, authorities maintain that their actions are lawful and necessary to safeguard national sovereignty.
“Tanzania values civic engagement, but it must not be used as a tool for imported disruption,” the police added.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has not disclosed the number of individuals deported or the exact nature of the alleged offenses.
The police said investigations are ongoing and further details will be shared in due course.
The incident has triggered reactions across social media, with some defending the government’s stance on sovereignty while others fear a chilling effect on legitimate activism and advocacy in the country.
The statement also urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that could threaten national stability.
