A section of Tanzanian opposition leaders and supporters from the CHADEMA party have reportedly crossed into Kenya, seeking political asylum over what they describe as increasing persecution and fear for their lives back home.

The group, which arrived in Nairobi on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, says the political environment in Tanzania has worsened in recent months, leaving many opposition figures vulnerable to harassment, abductions, and killings.

Rose Mayemba, a CHADEMA committee member who is among those who fled, described the situation as dire and unsafe for anyone perceived to be opposing the government. She painted a chilling picture of what she says is a campaign of targeted violence carried out by both uniformed and plainclothes officers.

“Walikuwa hawaui watu tu ambao wameandamana, kulikuwa na polisi na watu ambao wamevalia nguo ya kawaida wanaenda vyumba vya watu wanagonga mlango mnatoka nje, ukikutwa ni kijana unauawa, ni zaidi ya maandamano,” Mayemba said

Her account echoes widespread fears within Tanzania’s opposition, particularly after treason charges against CHADEMA’s leader, Tundu Lissu, were postponed earlier this week, a move that sparked anxiety among his supporters.

John Pambalu, CHADEMA’s Director of Training, also expressed grave concern about the state of the nation, accusing the current administration of silencing dissent through brutality and intimidation.

“Taifa la Tanzania linapitia ponde la uvuli wa mauti, utawala wa Rais Samia tangu alivyoingia madarakani umekuwa wa kinyama sana, mamia wa vijana wa Tanzania wametegwa na kuuawa kinyama sana,” Pambalu said

The asylum seekers are now appealing to the Kenyan government and international community for protection, warning that many more opposition members back home remain in danger.

Their arrival marks a growing concern over Tanzania’s political climate, with human rights groups likely to increase pressure on regional leaders to intervene.