People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has called on key African organizations to hold Tanzanian authorities accountable for the alleged detention and torture of Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan journalist Agather Atuhaire.
In a strongly worded letter addressed to the African Union (AU), African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, East African Community (EAC), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Karua condemned the actions as a violation of international human rights norms and a setback for democratic principles in East Africa.
Activists Detained During Mission to Observe Tundu Lissu’s Trial
Karua revealed that the activists were part of a delegation observing the trial of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu. Upon their arrival, they were allegedly arrested, detained without communication, and subjected to inhumane treatment by Tanzanian authorities.
“The detention of Mwangi and Atuhaire follows the earlier deportation of six other international trial observers, including a former Chief Justice and a member of the Law Society of Kenya, all on the same mission,” Karua stated.
Karua’s Ten Demands to Regional and International Bodies
In her letter, Karua outlined ten key demands aimed at addressing the crisis and preventing similar incidents in the future:
- Formal Inquiry: Issue diplomatic notes requesting clarity on the whereabouts and condition of Agather Atuhaire.
- Human Rights Monitoring: Activate human rights mechanisms to investigate allegations of illegal detention and torture.
- Diplomatic Engagement: Raise these concerns in bilateral discussions involving Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
- Joint Statement: Coordinate a statement from regional organizations condemning forced disappearances and deportations.
- EAC Intervention: Convene an extraordinary meeting to address breaches of regional human rights protocols.
- Court Observation: Deploy diplomatic observers to attend any related court proceedings.
- Conditional Aid: Review bilateral aid programs with a focus on human rights compliance.
- Legal Support: Provide international legal assistance to local human rights defenders.
- UN Involvement: Engage UN Special Procedures and regional human rights bodies for further intervention.
- Public Diplomacy: Emphasize the importance of human rights and the rule of law in regional relations.
Karua, acting as the convener of the Pan African Progressive Leaders’ Solidarity Network, urged these bodies to respond within 72 hours.
Activist Boniface Mwangi Speaks Out
Boniface Mwangi, who reappeared publicly after nearly a week, detailed his harrowing experience, claiming he endured severe torture while detained in Tanzania.
“I have been through a nightmare. The torture was brutal, and I am struggling to walk,” Mwangi said. His greatest concern, however, remains for Atuhaire, who he alleges was also subjected to inhumane treatment.
A Broader Crisis
Karua emphasized that this incident highlights deeper concerns about declining human rights standards in the East African Community. She called on African leaders to ensure member states adhere to their obligations under international law.
“This is not just a humanitarian issue but a wake-up call about the erosion of justice and human rights in our region,” Karua concluded.
