**Martha Karua Deported from Tanzania Amid Political Tensions**

Kenyan human rights advocate Martha Karua has reportedly been deported from Tanzania to prevent her attendance at a high-profile court case. Karua’s sudden deportation raises serious concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in Tanzania, where political repression appears to be tightening as elections approach.

In an incident that has drawn widespread condemnation, Martha Karua, along with two associates, was interrogated for hours by Tanzanian authorities before being deported. Karua was in Tanzania to observe the treason trial of Tundu Lissu, the leader of the opposition Chadema party. Lissu is facing serious charges which he argues are politically motivated. Karua's party, the People's Liberation Party, expressed outrage at the arbitrary actions of Tanzanian authorities, reflecting growing concerns about political freedoms in the country as it gears up for elections later this year.

Karua’s presence in Tanzania was previously allowed, highlighting the sudden shift in Tanzanian authorities' stance regarding foreign observers amid fears of political instability. Observers in East Africa see this escalation as part of a broader campaign to stifle dissent and manipulate the electoral process as the country prepares for presidential and parliamentary elections in October.

Lissu’s plight is exacerbated by his inability to secure bail due to treason charges that carry a possible death sentence. The Tanzanian government has repeatedly faced accusations of curbing political freedoms under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, with critics drawing parallels to the repressive era of her predecessor.

Karua's deportation and the continued harassment of opposition figures indicate the contentious climate in Tanzania, leading many to question the future of democratic governance in the region.