Tanzania Faces Mounting Pressure Over Alleged Abuse of Activists

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How safe is it to speak out in Tanzania today? This question looms large as the country faces growing international scrutiny over serious allegations of torture and abuse of activists by its security forces. With general elections approaching, human rights groups, legal bodies, and political figures are demanding transparent investigations and urgent reforms.

In May 2025, Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire reported being detained by Tanzanian authorities while attending opposition leader Tundu Lissu’s treason trial in Dar es Salaam. They allege that they were blindfolded, interrogated, stripped, and sexually assaulted before being abandoned near their respective borders. Tanzanian officials have not addressed the accusations publicly.

These reports echo a broader pattern of repression. In 2024, Tanzanian activist Edgar Mwakabela was allegedly abducted, tortured, and left with gunshot wounds in Katavi National Park. His lawyers have filed for compensation, citing grave human rights violations.

Systemic abuse within law enforcement is a growing concern. The Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance (CHRAGG), Tanzania’s constitutional human rights body, reported that some police stations are used to torture suspects. From July 2023 to May 2024, CHRAGG handled over 1,000 complaints, exposing deep flaws in the justice system.

International organisations such as Amnesty International and the East Africa Law Society have condemned these actions and called for accountability. As Tanzania moves toward its elections, the global community is watching closely, urging reforms to protect the rights and safety of all citizens.