NAMANGA, Kenya —

Tensions flared on Thursday along the Kenya–Tanzania border as unrest linked to Tanzania’s disputed election began to spill across into Kenyan territory. Police at Namanga, a bustling frontier town straddling the two nations, blocked a group of young men attempting to cross amid fears that demonstrations could spread.

Videos circulating online showed youths on motorbikes waving placards and chanting as they approached the border post. On the Tanzanian side, heavily armed police patrolled the streets, while Kenyan officers stood guard to prevent any escalation.

The unrest comes as protests continue to shake major Tanzanian cities following last week’s elections, which opposition groups have denounced as unfair. In Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Mwanza, police have clashed with demonstrators demanding transparency in the vote count.

Kenyan authorities moved swiftly to discourage citizens from joining the protests. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo warned that taking part in demonstrations linked to events in another country could breach Kenyan law.

“I don’t want to speak about what is happening in Tanzania — I can speak about Kenya,” Mr Omollo told reporters in Mombasa. “We have laws and regulations governing public demonstrations. Anyone who wishes to protest must do so within the framework of our law.”

He urged restraint, saying, “I appeal to everyone not to take the law into their own hands. If there is any point of inconvenience, our officers at the border will advise accordingly to ensure no one is put in danger.”

The Namanga crossing, normally busy with trucks and traders moving goods between the two countries, remained under tight surveillance. Local businesses briefly closed as police set up roadblocks and checked vehicles.

By late afternoon, calm had largely returned, though residents said the atmosphere remained tense. “People are scared it could turn violent,” said one shopkeeper, watching from behind his metal shutters. “We’ve seen what’s happening across the border, and no one wants that here.”

Regional analysts say the situation highlights how political instability in one East African nation can ripple quickly across borders. Kenya and Tanzania share deep cultural and economic ties, with many families living on both sides.

For now, security forces in both countries are keeping a close watch — hoping that the turbulence in Tanzania does not ignite a wider wave of unrest.