Karua pressures AU to take firm action on Tanzania’s situation
By Kiprono Keileb, November 7, 2025The People’s Liberation Party Leader, Martha Karua, has called on the African Union (AU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to go beyond statements of concern and take decisive action in response to the ongoing political crisis in Tanzania.
In a statement shared on X on Friday, November 7, 2025, Karua urged the two continental blocs to stand by the principles of democracy and human rights, warning that silence in the face of violence would betray the ideals Africa stands for.
“AU and SADC must move from outrage to action to uphold the values set in the African Charter on Democracy, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, as well as international norms,” she said.
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Karua said Tanzania’s current situation called for the same urgency and firmness the AU applies when responding to unconstitutional changes of government elsewhere on the continent. “This is what the AU does whenever there is a coup d’état in any country,” she stated.
She described the unfolding events as deeply concerning. “The country continues to experience a ruthless purge that targets opposition leaders, dissenters, and in some instances civilians going about their business,” the statement reads
Her remarks come amid growing concern across the region following reports of political unrest and repression in Tanzania, where opposition figures have raised alarm over arrests and alleged violations of civil liberties.
Karua said Africa must not turn a blind eye to suffering within its borders, calling on regional leaders to defend democracy and protect the rights of citizens. “Africa must not condone a blood bath in its midst. Time to act is now,” she emphasised.
She concluded her statement with a rallying call for unity and resilience across the continent. “This we owe to ourselves and the future. Aluta continua,” she said.
Karua’s message adds to a growing chorus of African voices demanding accountability and solidarity, reminding the continent’s institutions that democracy must be protected not only in words but through bold, principled action.