Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has confirmed that the Kenyan government is pursuing diplomatic channels to secure the release of renowned activist Boniface Mwangi, who is currently being held by Tanzanian authorities.
Speaking during an interview, Mudavadi disclosed that the Kenyan embassy in Tanzania is actively engaged in the matter and is in communication with Mwangi. “Our embassy is in touch with him in terms of trying to figure out how he can be helped so that he can find his way home,” said Mudavadi. He further noted that the Tanzanian authorities have yet to provide clear reasons for Mwangi’s detention.
Mwangi, a vocal human rights defender, had travelled to Tanzania to show solidarity with opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is also under detention. Before his arrest, Mwangi raised alarm over his safety, claiming that unidentified armed men in civilian clothes attempted to access his hotel room at the Serena Hotel in Dar es Salaam.
“My life is in danger. I’m at Serena Hotel, Dar es Salaam, and there are armed men in civilian clothes outside my room,” he posted on social media. In a subsequent update, he indicated that the men had moved to the hotel lobby and were seemingly waiting for him. He remained in his room, awaiting Tanzanian lawyers who had taken up his case.
The incident follows a recent wave of detentions involving Kenyan citizens in Tanzania. Among those earlier detained at the Julius Nyerere Airport in Dar es Salaam were former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and activists Hanifa Adan and Hussein Khalid.
Mudavadi emphasized the importance of diplomacy in handling the situation. Diplomatic measures, he explained, involve negotiations and strategic communication aimed at resolving disputes peacefully and advancing national interests without resorting to conflict.
As the situation unfolds, the Kenyan government remains hopeful that continued diplomatic engagement will lead to a swift and peaceful resolution, ensuring the safe return of Boniface Mwangi and other detained citizens. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring developments and coordinating efforts with legal and human rights groups in Tanzania.
