The United States government has called for a full and immediate investigation into the alleged torture and human rights violations of East African activists Boniface Mwangi and Agather Atuhaire, who were recently detained in Tanzania.
“We call for an immediate and full investigation into the allegations of human rights abuses. We urge all countries in the region to hold to account those responsible for violating human rights, including torture,” a statement from the U.S. embassy in Nairobi read.
Mwangi and Atuhaire, both prominent human rights defenders, were in Tanzania earlier this week to show solidarity with opposition leader Tundu Lissu during a court appearance. They were subsequently arrested and held incommunicado for several days before resurfacing at separate border points, visibly traumatized and in pain.
“I have gone through four very dark days,” Mwangi said after being located at the Kenya-Tanzania border in Horohoro. “I have been tortured very badly. I can barely walk.”
Atuhaire was found at the Mutukula border between Tanzania and Uganda. Her testimony painted a chilling picture of abuse at the hands of Tanzanian authorities. “They violently stripped me, handcuffed me, beat the soles of my feet, gagged me… and what was done to me amounts to rape,” she said.
The shocking revelations have drawn widespread condemnation across the region. Human rights organizations, civil society groups, and political leaders have accused the Tanzanian government of systematically suppressing dissent and violating international human rights standards.
People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has written to continental organizations, including the African Union, urging urgent action against President Samia Suluhu’s administration.
“The targeting of activists who advocate for democracy and justice is unacceptable in any society that respects the rule of law,” Karua stated.
The Tanzanian government has yet to issue an official response to the mounting criticism. Meanwhile, calls for justice and accountability continue to grow, with observers urging regional and international bodies to take decisive steps to protect human rights defenders in East Africa.
Written By Rodney Mbua
