Agather Atuhaire, a Ugandan activist recently detained in Tanzania, has made alarming allegations of rape and torture while in detention. After days of confinement, Atuhaire was discovered at the border, recounting her horrific experiences to the BBC. She detailed how she was blindfolded and violently stripped, suffering sexual assault at the hands of plainclothes individuals.
Alongside her, Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi was also detained, and both were subjected to inhumane treatment. Mwangi reported similar abuses, raising the alarm over their conditions. The Tanzanian authorities have yet to issue a statement regarding the accusations, but regional human rights groups are calling for an urgent investigation.
Atuhaire, who leads the Agora Centre for Research in Uganda, displayed signs of physical abuse, including scars from handcuffs. She described the agony of her experience, including screams that were muffled by her captors. Mwangi substantiated her account, noting the fear and threat they faced from their captors, who indicated that their treatment was directed by state security.
Their arrests occurred while they were in Tanzania to show support for opposition figure Tundu Lissu, who is facing serious charges. Warnings from Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan against external activism indicate a broader governmental crackdown on dissent.
Following the activists' distressing ordeal, the US Department of State's Bureau of Africa Affairs expressed its concern, especially as Atuhaire was previously honored as a "Women of Courage Awardee." They have called for thorough investigations into the violations of their rights and urged East African nations to adhere to human rights treaties.
On Thursday night, Atuhaire was located at the border after her prolonged detention, having been abandoned. She was reportedly greeted back home by the Ugandan high commissioner, while Mwangi was also found disoriented on the roadside, highlighting the severe implications of their treatment at the hands of Tanzanian authorities.
This incident has ignited widespread condemnation and protests within Kenya, with calls for immediate intervention to ensure accountability for those violating human rights. The ongoing saga reveals critical issues surrounding political freedom and human rights in the region, prompting calls for regional solidarity in upholding the law and protecting activists.
