Activists Plan Legal Action Against Tanzanian Government Over Torture Claims

In a remarkable display of resilience against state repression, Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan lawyer Agather Atuhaire have announced their intention to sue the Tanzanian government following allegations of illegal detention and sexual torture during their visit to Tanzania in May 2025. The two activists, who traveled to support opposition leader Tundu Lissu, claim they were subjected to severe abuse at the hands of Tanzanian authorities, marking a troubling escalation in the crackdown on dissent in the country.

The activists held a press conference in Nairobi where they detailed their harrowing experiences after being detained in Dar es Salaam. Mwangi, a prominent photojournalist known for his activism, stated, "[The authorities] take you through sexual torture," highlighting the severity of their treatment. Atuhaire, who has received international recognition for her work against corruption, described being smeared with excrement and physically assaulted during their detention.

Their planned legal action will target both domestic courts and regional human rights bodies, including the East African Court of Justice and the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights. This move reflects a growing trend among activists in East Africa to seek accountability for human rights violations, especially as Tanzania approaches its upcoming elections in October.

The situation in Tanzania has become increasingly precarious under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who took office after the death of John Magufuli in 2021. Initially praised for her conciliatory approach, Hassan's administration has faced accusations of reverting to the oppressive tactics of her predecessor. Human rights organizations have documented a series of abuses, including arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, and targeted attacks on political opponents.

Abdallah Possi, Tanzania’s representative to the United Nations, acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations during a recent UN Human Rights Council meeting, stating, "Although these claims against the government are highly doubtful, we take the allegations of torture, sexual abuse and malpractices very seriously." Nevertheless, many critics remain skeptical, citing the government's track record of denying wrongdoing.

The recent incidents involving Mwangi and Atuhaire are not isolated. Reports have emerged detailing similar abuses against Tanzanian citizens, particularly those involved in opposition activities. The killing of Mohamed Ali Kibao, an opposition party member, and the brutal attack on Father Charles Kitima, a vocal critic of the government, have intensified fears among activists and the general populace.

Maria Sarungi Tsehai, a Tanzanian rights advocate currently in self-exile, commented on the government's actions, describing the targeting of non-Tanzanians as unprecedented and indicative of a regime in panic ahead of the elections. "What we’re seeing is a very insecure presidential candidate," she remarked. "She has decided that she doesn’t want to have any free or fair election."

As the political climate in Tanzania continues to deteriorate, Mwangi and Atuhaire's determination to pursue justice stands as a testament to the resilience of activists in the face of systemic oppression. Both activists have vowed to shed light on the abuses occurring in Tanzania and to amplify the voices of those who have suffered similar fates. "There’s no level of shame or stigma that is more important than pursuing justice," Atuhaire stated passionately. "Justice is the driving factor – these people must be held accountable for what they did to us and for what they have done to Tanzanians."

Looking ahead, the international community's response to the Tanzanian government's actions will be crucial. As more activists come forward with their experiences, there may be increasing pressure on the Tanzanian administration to address these human rights abuses and engage in meaningful reforms, particularly in the lead-up to the elections. The eyes of the world will be on Tanzania as it navigates this critical juncture, and the actions of Mwangi and Atuhaire may very well influence the path forward for human rights in the country.