Activist Boniface Mwangi has finally been set free by the Tanzanian authorities after being detained in the country for more than three days.
The details of his release and deportation were communicated by the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi. Mwangi is said to have been deported via road and was found abandoned in Ukunda, Kwale County.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) shared on their socials the news of Mwangi’s release, further stating that they were making arrangements for him to be airlifted to Nairobi for medical attention.
“KNCHR this morning received Human Rights Defender Boniface Mwangi in Kwale County following his release from Tanzanian authorities. He is in high spirits. The Commission and other partners are making arrangements to transfer him to Nairobi for medical attention,” the commission said.
Mwangi is among Kenyan activists who travelled to Tanzania to attend the treason hearing of the country’s opposition leader Tundu Lissu. However, their efforts were thwarted by Tanzanian authorities, who barred their entry. He was detained alongside Uganda’s journalist Agather Atuhaire.
Prior to his release, human rights defenders continued to pile pressure on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to intervene. Police were also deployed at the Tanzanian consulate in Kenya following planned protests at the premises.
On Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement stating that they were denied consular access and information regarding Boniface Mwangi. The ministry also complained that the Tanzanian authorities refused to provide information regarding his detention.
“The Ministry notes that, despite several requests, officials of the Government of Kenya have been denied consular access and information to Mr. Mwangi. The Ministry is also concerned about his health, overall well-being, and the absence of information regarding his detention,” a statement from the ministry read in part.
Earlier, former Chief Justice David Maraga raised concerns over the continued detention of Mr. Mwangi in the United Republic of Tanzania without access to the courts, legal counsel, or consular representation — in clear violation of international human rights law.
