Activist Released in Tanzania After Urgent Intervention by Kenyan Government

Boniface Mwangi, a prominent Kenyan activist, has been released from detention in Tanzania following urgent calls from Kenya's foreign ministry for his immediate return.

Boniface Mwangi, a courageous activist, was freed from a three-day detention in Tanzania, prompting relief among supporters and officials alike. The activist was apprehended in Dar es Salaam on Monday alongside Ugandan colleague Agather Atuhaire, reportedly by military officers during their attendance of a court case for Tanzania's opposition leader Tundu Lissu, charged with treason. Concerns over their safety escalated when Kenyan authorities, led by the foreign ministry, stated they had been denied consular access and were worried for Mwangi's health.

The Tanzanian government has yet to publicly address Mwangi's arrest and subsequent deportation. President Samia Suluhu Hassan had previously issued warnings against foreign activists interfering in Tanzanian issues, which could lead to unrest. Following mounting pressure from the Kenyan government, including demands for immediate consular access, Mwangi was released and is reportedly back in Kenya and in good spirits, as confirmed by Kenya’s National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).

While his wife voiced her fears for his well-being amid the detention, the Kenyan government’s actions underline serious regional human rights concerns, especially as Tanzania faces growing scrutiny for crackdowns on dissent leading up to upcoming elections. There is a palpable atmosphere of tension surrounding the treatment of civil society and opposition in Tanzania as activism faces increasing risks in the region.