The Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) has confirmed that contrary to earlier reports, Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and journalist Wanjiru Nguhi have not yet been deported from Tanzania.
Although the two were initially believed to have been deported from the country, fresh information now indicates that they are still in custody.
However, they have been moved from police custody to the Immigration Department of the United Republic of Tanzania.
In an official statement issued Monday, TLS President Advocate Boniface Mwabukusi clarified the status of the two individuals, calling for the need for the Tanzanian government to uphold the rule of law and due process.
Mwangi and Atuhaire were accused of providing false information upon entry into the country and held at the Central Police Station in Dar es Salaam since May 19, 2025.
“Due process must be strictly observed, in line with both domestic law and applicable regional obligations,” said the TLS President, referring to Tanzania’s commitments under various East African and African Union human rights frameworks.
Also Read: Tanzanian Police Break Silence on X Account Hack After Deportation of Kenyan Activists
Tanganyika Law Society on Boniface Mwangi
Earlier, the president of the Tanganyika Law Society condemned the detention of the two, calling for stronger protection for journalists and human rights defenders across East Africa.
“As advocates for human rights, constitutionalism, and the rule of law in the East African region, we are duty-bound to continue engaging our respective national and regional authorities,” he added.
Further, he highlighted the importance of upholding the principles of the East African Community Treaty, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and other international conventions that protect freedom of movement, expression, and the protection of human rights defenders.
“To ensure adherence to the Constitutions, municipal laws, and binding regional and international legal instruments governing freedom of movement, expression, and protection of journalists and human rights defenders,” explained Mwabukusi.
Also Read: Martha Karua Blocked from Entering Tanzania
Tanzania Police X Account Hacked
On the morning of Tuesday, May 20, 2025, hackers briefly took over the official X account of the Tanzania Police Force, using it to spread misinformation, including a false claim about the death of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The breach came amid growing tensions following the deportation of Kenyan activists and legal figures, including former Justice Minister Martha Karua and former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga.
Kenyan activists and legal practitioners had travelled to Tanzania to support opposition leader Tundu Lissu during his trial. However, they were denied entry and swiftly deported.
In response to the incident and growing criticism, President Suluhu said that foreign activists would not be allowed to interfere in the country’s internal matters, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and national order.
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