The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has broken its silence regarding the detention of activist Boniface Mwangi, demanding his immediate release or consular access to him in accordance with international law.
In a statement on 22 May 2025, the ministry urged the Tanzanian government to invoke the provisions of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (1963), to which both the Republic of Kenya and the United Republic of Tanzania are State Parties.
“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 the statement.
Further, the government stated that they are aware of the apprehension of Boniface Mwangi by Tanzanian authorities and that he is currently in their custody.
Kenya Demands Release of Boniface Mwangi
“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,” read part of the statement.
Further, the government referenced Article 36 (a) and (c) of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, which states, among other provisions, that:
(a) Consular officers shall be free to communicate with nationals of the sending State and have access to them. Likewise, nationals of the sending State shall have the same freedom to communicate with and access consular officers.
(c) Consular officers have the right to visit nationals of the sending State who are in prison, custody, or detention, to converse and correspond with them, and to arrange for their legal representation. They also have the right to visit any such nationals detained within their district in pursuance of a judgment.
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Threat to Kenya-Tanzania Diplomatic Ties
Additionally, they reaffirmed their commitment to strong bilateral relations between the two countries and expressed hope that the matter will be resolved swiftly and amicably, in the spirit of regional cooperation and mutual respect.
“The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Kenya avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation of the United Republic of Tanzania the assurances of its highest consideration,” ended the statement.
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Boniface Mwangi Still in Tanzania
The Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) confirmed that, contrary to earlier reports, Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and journalist Wanjiru Nguhi have not been deported from Tanzania.
Further, they stated that they have been moved from police custody to the Immigration Department of the United Republic of Tanzania.
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.
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