PRWG-K Statement on Detention of Kenya and Uganda Human Rights Activists by Tanzania Authorities

The Police Reforms Working Group - Kenya (PRWG-K) strongly condemns the arrest and incommunicado detention of renowned human rights defenders Boniface Mwangi of Kenya and Agather Atuhaire of Uganda by Tanzanian authorities. The two were reportedly detained while in Tanzania to observe the ongoing court proceedings involving Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu, an act that is neither unlawful nor a threat to public order.

Their arrest is a blatant violation of the fundamental rights of human rights defenders and journalists, and it further raises serious concerns about the shrinking civic space and the growing trend of enforced disappearances and abductions in East Africa. We are deeply alarmed by reports that both defenders are being denied access to legal representation and communication with their families and consular services in clear violations of international human rights standards.

As members of the East African Community (EAC), all partner states, including Tanzania, are bound by regional treaties and protocols that guarantee the free movement of persons, freedom of expression, and protection of human rights. Article 6 The East African Community Treaty affirms principles of democracy, the rule of law, accountability, transparency, social justice, and the promotion and protection of human and peoples' rights in accordance with the provisions of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights. Article 7 (2) binds Tanzania and all member states abide by the principles of good governance, including adherence to the principles of democracy, the rule of law, social justice, and the maintenance of universally accepted standards of human rights. The Treaty further affirms the right of citizens of member states to travel freely within the region without undue restriction. The continued detention of Boniface and Agather without due process undermines not only their rights but the spirit of East African integration and solidarity.

We demand the following:

1. Immediate and unconditional release of Boniface and Agather.
2. Full respect for their right to communicate with legal counsel, families, and consular representatives.
3. An end to the unlawful targeting, harassment, and abduction of human rights defenders in Tanzania.
4. An independent investigation into the circumstances of their arrest and all other similar cases.

The harassment of civic actors must not be normalized. The safety and dignity of all persons, regardless of nationality, must be upheld at all times.

We urge the Tanzanian government to honour its domestic and international obligations.