By Judy Maina
NAIROBI — The recent detention and alleged mistreatment of Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan journalist Agather Atuhaire by Tanzanian authorities have ignited diplomatic tensions across East Africa, raising concerns over human rights and regional cooperation.
Mwangi and Atuhaire were arrested earlier this week in Dar es Salaam while attending the treason trial of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu.
Their whereabouts remained unknown for several days, prompting outcry from human rights organizations and government officials.
On Thursday, Mwangi was released and found near the Kenyan border in Kwale County. He reported experiencing severe torture during his detention, stating that both he and Atuhaire were “treated worse than dogs, chained, blindfolded and underwent very gruesome torture” .
Atuhaire was later located at the Uganda-Tanzania border, also showing signs of torture. Her organization, the Agora Centre for Research, confirmed her release and expressed relief over her safety .
The Kenyan government condemned the actions of Tanzanian authorities, citing violations of international law and diplomatic protocols. Kenya’s Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of consular access and the protection of its citizens abroad .
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan defended her country’s actions, warning foreign activists against interfering in domestic affairs. She stated that security services should prevent “ill-mannered individuals from other countries” from crossing into Tanzania .
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and the Police Reforms Working Group Kenya, have called for independent investigations into the activists’ treatment and urged regional bodies to uphold human rights standards .
The incident has highlighted growing concerns over political repression in Tanzania ahead of upcoming elections. Observers warn that such actions could undermine regional stability and the principles of the East African Community.
