Human rights organizations across East Africa are raising alarms over the alleged mistreatment of activists from Kenya and Uganda in Tanzania. The concern follows incidents involving Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan journalist Agather Atuhaire, who reportedly faced harassment and detention while participating in civil society engagements.
Statements from multiple human rights groups indicate that both activists were detained under unclear circumstances, interrogated for hours, and later deported without formal charges. Their treatment has sparked outrage among civil society organizations, regional watchdogs, and legislators, all of whom are now demanding accountability from the Tanzanian government as well as their home countries.
Activists argue that such actions violate fundamental rights and threaten regional cooperation on governance and human rights. They fear this sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of outspoken citizens across East Africa. Lawmakers from Kenya and Uganda are being urged to take a stand against the growing trend of cross-border repression.
Mwangi, known for his bold critique of government excesses, described the experience as intimidating, calling it an effort to silence civic engagement. Atuhaire, a journalist focused on transparency and accountability, expressed similar concerns, describing the ordeal as deeply troubling for democracy in the region.
International organizations have joined in the condemnation. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have called on Tanzanian authorities to explain the legal grounds for the detentions and urged regional governments to protect the rights of their citizens abroad.
The incident adds to growing worries about the shrinking space for civic expression in East Africa. As governments tighten controls, activists warn that suppressing free speech and political participation could erode public trust and destabilize regional institutions.
With pressure mounting, the demand is clear: East African states must uphold fundamental freedoms and ensure that activists can carry out their work without fear, regardless of borders.
