Activist Boniface Mwangi Freed After Diplomatic Pressure from Kenya

Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi was detained in Tanzania and released after diplomatic pressure from his home country, raising concerns about the safety of activists in the region.

Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi, who was arrested in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, has been freed after significant diplomatic intervention from the Kenyan government. Mwangi was detained along with Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire while attending a court case for opposition leader Tundu Lissu, accused of treason.

Following the arrest, Kenya's Foreign Ministry expressed deep concern over Mwangi's situation, stating it had faced barriers to accessing him, including denial of consular access despite multiple requests. The ministry highlighted their worries about his health and well-being and called upon Tanzania to urgently grant access or release him in line with international legal standards.

The ministry's demands were echoed by Korir Sing'oei, a senior official, who confirmed on social media that Mwangi had safely returned to Kenya. Upon his return, he was photographed with his wife, Njeri, and Khalid Hussein, a fellow activist, displaying signs of high spirits despite the ordeal. The Kenyan National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) stated plans to transfer him to Nairobi for medical assessment.

The backdrop to Mwangi's arrest includes escalating tensions with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who warned against foreign activists perceived as inciting unrest within her country. Recent months have seen heightened concern from human rights groups regarding the treatment of opposition figures in Tanzania, particularly in light of approaching elections.

Mwangi's wife had previously expressed worry for her husband’s safety, revealing they had lost contact after his arrest. This incident follows other recent deportations of Kenyan officials and activists from Tanzania, suggesting a broader clampdown on dissent ahead of the electoral period. The unfolding events have drawn attention to the precarious position of activists in East Africa, as political tensions rise.

As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how diplomatic relations will evolve and whether further measures will be taken to protect activists facing detention in the region.