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Government raises diplomatic pressure as civil society and rights groups call for transparency and consular access following Mwangi’s mysterious disappearance in Dar es Salaam
Kenya has raised serious concerns about the disappearance of well-known activist and photographer Boniface Mwangi, who was reportedly detained in Tanzania earlier this week.
In a statement released by Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs on Thursday, the government said that Mwangi was last seen in Dar es Salaam on Monday and is believed to have been taken into custody by Tanzanian authorities. Since then, there has been no official communication from Tanzania about his whereabouts or condition.
Kenya’s government expressed “deep concern” over Mwangi’s detention and the fact that, despite multiple efforts, Tanzanian officials have not allowed Kenyan representatives to see him or provided any updates about his situation. The Foreign Ministry’s statement highlighted worries about Mwangi’s health and wellbeing, as well as the lack of transparency surrounding his detention.
“The Ministry notes that, despite several requests, Kenyan officials have been denied consular access to Mr. Mwangi,” read part of the statement. “We are also worried about his health and the fact that we have no clear information about why he was detained or where he is now.”
Mwangi is a well-known figure in Kenya, admired for his activism, bold political views, and powerful photography. Reports suggest he was arrested on suspicion of entering Tanzania without following the correct procedures and for allegedly obstructing local authorities. However, Tanzanian officials have not confirmed any charges against him or issued a public statement.
Kenya is urging Tanzania to follow international laws, especially the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. This agreement, which both countries have signed, allows detained foreign nationals to have access to their home country’s embassy or consular officials. Kenya is asking Tanzania to either grant consular access or release Mwangi without further delay.
“In light of the above, the Ministry urges the Government of Tanzania to act quickly and allow access to or release of Mr. Mwangi, in accordance with international law and diplomatic standards,” the statement said.
Mwangi’s disappearance has caused a stir among civil society groups and human rights organizations in Kenya. Many are demanding answers and calling for Tanzania to follow proper legal procedures. The incident has also raised questions about how Tanzania treats political visitors and activists from neighboring countries.
This situation follows a recent series of diplomatic tensions between the two nations. Just days before Mwangi’s alleged detention, Tanzanian authorities arrested and deported prominent Kenyan lawyer and politician Martha Karua. She had traveled to Tanzania to support opposition leader Tundu Lissu in a court case.
Other notable Kenyan figures, including former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and a group of activists, were also denied entry into Tanzania and sent back. These incidents have raised alarms about Tanzania’s attitude toward foreign activists and politicians, especially those involved in supporting political movements or opposition figures.
As pressure mounts, both the Kenyan government and human rights organizations are calling for calm, transparency, and adherence to international norms. They insist that the rights of individuals, regardless of political beliefs or nationality, must be respected.
Kenya continues to wait for a response from Tanzanian authorities and has made it clear that the safe return and wellbeing of Boniface Mwangi remains a top priority.