Kenyan human rights activist Boniface Mwangi has returned to the country following a harrowing five-day detention in Tanzania, emerging visibly weak and emotionally shaken. Mwangi was arrested in Dar es Salaam earlier this week while attempting to attend a court hearing for Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who faces treason charges.
Mwangi was reportedly detained alongside Ugandan lawyer and fellow activist Agather Atuhaire. The two were held incommunicado, sparking widespread concern across East Africa. While Mwangi has since been released, Atuhaire’s whereabouts remain unknown, prompting continued calls for her safe return.
Following his release, Tanzanian authorities deported Mwangi by road and left him in Ukunda, Kwale County. He was later rushed to a hospital in Diani, where doctors noted he appeared injured and physically drained. Speaking briefly at the Mombasa International Airport before being airlifted to Nairobi for further medical attention, Mwangi described his ordeal as “harrowing.”
“I have gone through three, four dark days. I have been tortured very badly. I can barely walk,” he said. Videos shared by Haki Africa Executive Director Hussein Khalid showed Mwangi in distress, being wheeled through the airport with difficulty.
The exact nature and extent of his injuries remain unclear, but Nairobi-based doctors are expected to conduct more thorough evaluations. Mwangi’s family confirmed that they were notified of his frail condition before his arrival.
In a short but heartfelt statement, Mwangi expressed gratitude for the public support that contributed to his release. “I’m just happy to be back,” he said, urging Kenyans to pray for Atuhaire.
The incident drew outrage from human rights groups across East Africa, with growing diplomatic pressure playing a key role in securing Mwangi’s freedom. Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi confirmed his release, following threats by Kenyan activists to hold protests outside the Tanzanian High Commission in Nairobi.
As investigations continue and medical reports emerge, the episode has reignited debate about cross-border repression and the safety of activists in the region.
