Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi has shared a harrowing account of torture he and Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire allegedly suffered while detained in Tanzania. Mwangi, who was released after several days in custody, claims the abuse was politically driven and directly linked to Tanzanian state security, naming President Samia Suluhu as ultimately responsible.
Mwangi and Atuhaire had traveled to Dar es Salaam to support opposition leader Tundu Lissu, but were instead detained, blindfolded, and taken to an undisclosed location where they were allegedly beaten, stripped, and forced to crawl while injured. He said they were separated and any communication between them was violently suppressed.
Mwangi identified a Tanzanian security agent as orchestrating their abduction and mistreatment, even in front of legal representatives who allegedly fled in fear. He described the man and emphasized his apparent connection to the presidency.
While Mwangi was released, Atuhaire was later found abandoned at the border between Tanzania and Uganda. Mwangi thanked those who fought for his release and insisted on continued efforts to locate Atuhaire and expose the abuse they faced.
Citing his history of pan-African solidarity, Mwangi underscored that their visit was peaceful and meant to demonstrate support for fellow activists. He vowed not to be silenced and called for greater unity among African activists, warning against the growing repression by authoritarian regimes.
He concluded with a defiant message, stating that what was done in President Suluhu’s name will be exposed to the world, and that the struggle for justice in Africa will continue despite threats and violence.
