Andrew Wasike
Friday May 23, 2025
Kenya on Wednesday raised alarm over the continued disappearance of activist Boniface Mwangi, who is said to have been held by Tanzanian authorities earlier this week.
According to a statement from the Foreign Ministry, Tanzanian officials have not provided any information about Mwangi’s location or condition since his alleged detention on Monday in Dar es Salaam.
In a formal diplomatic note on Thursday, the ministry expressed “deep concern regarding the apprehension of Mr. Boniface Mwangi” and the lack of information surrounding his disappearance.
“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 wellbeing and the absence of information regarding his detention,” read part of the communication addressed to Tanzania’s Foreign Ministry.
Mwangi, a prominent activist and photographer, was allegedly detained on charges of obstruction and irregular entry into Tanzania.
However, no formal charges have been confirmed, and Tanzanian authorities have yet to issue a public statement on the matter.
Kenya cited the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, to which both countries are signatories, urging Tanzania to honor its obligations under international law.
“In light of the above, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs respectfully urges the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania to expeditiously and without delay facilitate consular access to or release of Mr. Mwangi, in accordance with international legal obligations and diplomatic norms,” the statement said.
Mwangi’s disappearance has sparked growing concern among Kenyan civil society and rights groups, who have called for transparency and adherence to due process.
It comes just days after Tanzanian authorities arrested and deported Kenyan lawyers and politician Martha Karua, who had traveled to support opposition leader Tundu Lissu in court.
Kenya's former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and other activists were also denied entry and deported, raising fresh concerns about Tanzania’s treatment of regional political figures.