Activists Condemn Tanzania Over Inhumane Treatment of Rights Defenders
Nairobi, Kenya | THE INDEPENDENT | The East African Civil Society Organisations’ Forum (EACSOF) has strongly criticized Tanzania’s government for its treatment of human rights activists from East African Community (EAC) member states.
Detention and Deportation of Activists
The organization expressed grave concern over the detention, denial of entry, and deportation of EAC citizens by Tanzanian authorities between May 18-19, 2025. The affected individuals had been invited by regional institutions to observe public legal proceedings in Dar es Salaam but were abruptly removed without explanation or due process.
Notable cases include Kenyan politician and lawyer Martha Karua, who was detained and deported upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport while attempting to attend court proceedings for Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu. Ugandan journalist-lawyer Agather Atuhaire and Kenyan counterpart Boniface Mwangi were detained for four days before being abandoned at their respective borders.
Legal Violations and Regional Implications
EACSOF’s statement asserts these actions violate multiple legal frameworks:
- The EAC Treaty (Articles 6(d) and 7(2)) requiring rule of law and human rights respect
- The EAC Common Market Protocol (Article 7) guaranteeing free movement rights
- Tanzania’s Constitution (Articles 13(6)(a) and 15(1)) protecting personal liberty
- The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights
- Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations principles
Regional Repercussions
The organization warns these incidents damage regional trust, undermine civic cooperation, and threaten EAC integration progress in trade, tourism, and professional mobility. Tanzania’s reputation as a regional leader and Pan-African hospitality exemplar has suffered significant harm.
Calls for Action
EACSOF demands Tanzania:
- Clarify the legal basis for these actions
- Ensure future compliance with national and international law
- Engage regional bodies to address grievances
- Publicly reaffirm commitment to EAC principles
The group emphasizes that regional integration depends on respecting people-to-people connections and protecting civic freedoms across borders.
Source: The Independent Uganda