Activist Bob Njagi has called for a nationwide shutdown in Kenya on December 9 to show solidarity with Tanzanian citizens planning demonstrations on their Independence Day.
His appeal, issued days after his release from detention in Uganda, has reignited debate over cross-border collaboration among East African governments in handling political dissent.
Njagi said the protest would symbolize unity among citizens across the region against what he described as growing repression in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
He accused the three governments of coordinating arrests and surveillance of activists, a claim that has drawn attention from human rights groups monitoring shrinking civic spaces in East Africa.
“The arrest was a joint effort between Kenyan and Tanzanian authorities,” Njagi said, alleging that officials from both sides acted after learning of his travel plans.
“We are now organizing people across borders to stand up together and demand accountability.”
The activist urged Kenyan lawmakers to back a motion seeking the closure of the Tanzanian Embassy in Nairobi and to pressure the government to reassess its diplomatic stance toward Dodoma.
He said such actions would demonstrate Kenya’s support for Tanzanians expected to take part in protests during their national celebrations.
Njagi’s remarks come at a time when several civil society organizations have warned of increased restrictions on political freedoms across the East African region.
In Kenya, rights groups such as Amnesty International Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission have in recent years criticized security agencies for what they term “cross-border cooperation” targeting outspoken figures.
Tanzania is preparing to mark its 63rd Independence Day on December 9.
While the event is traditionally celebratory, some opposition voices in the country have hinted at using the occasion to raise concerns about governance, unemployment, and civic freedoms.