Arrest at Tanzanian Court Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan lawyer Agather Atuhaire were arrested on May 19, 2025, in Dar es Salaam. They had traveled to witness the treason trial of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu. Tanzanian police accused them of unlawful assembly and alleged plans to incite unrest.
Detention and Torture According to Mwangi, they were blindfolded, chained, and moved between unknown locations. He says they were interrogated, beaten, and denied food. “They treated us worse than animals,” Mwangi said after his release.
He added that security agents tied their legs, forced them to sleep on cold floors, and threatened their lives. They were not allowed legal counsel or contact with their families. Their phones were confiscated and remained missing after the release.
Dumped at the Border On May 22, Tanzanian authorities drove the two activists to the Kenya-Tanzania border near Kwale County. They were left without documents, money, or communication devices. Kenyan authorities and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) received them and rushed Mwangi to Nairobi for medical treatment.
Political Tension Grows President Samia Suluhu Hassan had recently warned foreign activists to stay out of Tanzanian politics. Human rights groups say her administration is cracking down on dissent. Tanzania has yet to respond to the allegations.
Public Outcry Mwangi’s story has sparked anger across Kenya and Uganda. Amnesty International, Haki Africa, and other watchdogs condemned the arrest. They urged both governments to uphold activists’ safety and push for accountability.
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has demanded a full explanation from Tanzanian officials.
Activist’s Response “I won’t be intimidated,” said Mwangi. “Torture didn’t break me. It only made me stronger.”
