Prominent Tanzanian Activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai Claims Abduction by Security Forces

Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai, known for her outspoken stance against authorities, was abducted and later released in Kenya, raising concerns about security rights in the region.

Prominent Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai, a vocal critic of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, was recently abducted by armed men in the capital city of Nairobi, Kenya. The incident occurred on a Sunday afternoon, and she was reported to have been "forced" into a vehicle by unidentified assailants. In a short time, however, she was released and shared her experience with her 1.3 million followers on social media platform X, expressing her relief and stating, "I have been saved."

Roland Ebole, spokesperson for Amnesty International Kenya, provided details about the abduction, indicating that the swift response from the Law Society of Kenya played a crucial role in her release. Faith Odhiambo, the Law Society's president, made it clear that such actions would not be tolerated, warning that Kenya should not allow itself to be a haven for abduction.

Despite her release, there is an ongoing atmosphere of fear and repression surrounding dissent in Tanzania. Ms. Tsehai has been a prominent advocate for land rights and freedom of speech. Her opposition to President Suluhu's government has heightened concerns that the country is reverting back to the oppressive climate that characterized the late John Magufuli's presidency, despite the current administration's promises of reform.

In the wake of her abduction, observers are raising alarm over a pattern of abductions and intimidation of political activists in Tanzania. Reports indicate that the Change Tanzania group, founded by Ms. Tsehai, fears her kidnapping was part of a strategy by Tanzanian security forces to silence opposition voices. Past incidents, such as the abduction of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye in Nairobi by Ugandan authorities, have raised similar alarm bells regarding cross-border abductions.

Further complicating matters, Kenya itself is facing criticism for a rise in encrypted disappearances. A state-funded rights organization reported over 80 abductions in the past six months alone, following youth-led protests against proposed tax hikes. This backdrop of unrest and uncertainty has heightened calls for accountability and protections for individuals who find themselves in vulnerable positions.

As the situation continues to unfold, the repercussions of Tsehai's abduction ripple beyond her individual experience, prompting critical discussions about freedom of speech, security, and human rights in both Tanzania and Kenya.