Martha Karua Responds Formally to Tanzanian MPs’ Criticism Over Interference Allegations

People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has formally addressed recent criticisms from Tanzanian Members of Parliament, who accused her of interfering in the country’s internal affairs. During a press briefing on Tuesday afternoon, Karua dismissed the remarks, stating that she would not dignify the insults with a direct response and emphasizing that the accusations lacked merit.

Karua instead shifted focus to what she termed ongoing violations of human rights by the Tanzanian government, accusing President Samia Suluhu’s administration of undermining the rule of law and the Constitution.

She cited the case of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who she claimed had been denied a fair trial. According to Karua, the case is politically motivated and reflects broader systemic issues within Tanzania’s judicial and political institutions.

“A state that openly violates its own Constitution and laws, including regional and international legal frameworks, cannot be trusted to uphold the rights of its citizens,” Karua stated.

She further remarked that the Tanzanian government has demonstrated an inability to fairly handle cases involving political figures, alleging that such matters are manipulated for political expediency.

Her response came a day after a heated session in the Tanzanian Parliament, where several lawmakers expressed outrage over Karua and five Kenyan activists’ involvement in Tanzanian civic matters. Pandani MP Maryam Omar notably questioned why Karua was allowed to leave the country without consequence, suggesting that disciplinary measures should have been taken against her.

“We made a mistake by sending Martha Karua back there, and this mistake should not happen again. How can someone come from there, interfere, and then be returned without any action taken?” Omar posed during the session.

Karua concluded her remarks by reaffirming her commitment to advocating for human rights and democratic accountability within the East African region, stressing that she would not be silenced by political threats or intimidation.

Her comments have added to the ongoing discourse around regional diplomacy, sovereignty, and the role of cross-border advocacy in promoting justice and governance.

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Martha Karua Responds Formally to Tanzanian MPs’ Criticism Over Interference Allegations