Maria Sarungi Tsehai, a prominent Tanzanian human rights activist, was abducted in Nairobi by armed individuals accused of being linked to Tanzania’s intelligence agency. She was later released and expressed her safety on social media. This incident has drawn attention to the ongoing repression of government critics in both Tanzania and Kenya, particularly as elections approach.
On Sunday afternoon, Maria Sarungi Tsehai, a noted Tanzanian human rights activist, was reportedly abducted in Nairobi by three armed individuals, as disclosed by her husband. Amnesty International confirmed the incident, during which she was forcibly taken into a black vehicle in the Kilimani area. Sarungi Tsehai, known for her critical stance towards Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, later announced her safety through a message on X, expressing gratitude for the support she received during the ordeal.
Her abduction highlights a troubling trend, as both Tanzanian and Kenyan governments face allegations of targeting dissenters. Sarungi Tsehai and her husband sought asylum in Kenya four years ago, escaping threats in Tanzania. In a video statement, her husband, David Tsehai, firmly blamed the Tanzania Information and Security Services (TISS), stating, “There is no doubt in my mind (it is) the thugs of the Tanzania Information and Security Services (TISS) who are behind this.” Both the Tanzanian and Kenyan authorities, however, have yet to comment on the accusations surrounding the incident.
This incident follows a pattern where rights groups accuse governments of engaging in abductions, particularly as Tanzania approaches national elections. President Hassan initiated an investigation last year into similar cases of critics being abducted. Amnesty International representative Roland Ebole condemned the abduction as a manifestation of “transnational repression that is happening on Kenyan soil.” Furthermore, the alarming trend of such incidents was underscored by the recent abduction of a Ugandan opposition figure, reinforcing concerns regarding the safety of political activists in the region.
The case involving Maria Sarungi Tsehai is emblematic of rising tensions between governments and critics in East Africa, particularly in Tanzania and Kenya. The trends observed in these countries show an alarming increase in the targeting of activists in the lead-up to elections. Following several abductions last year, rights organizations have raised alarms about systematic intimidation and repression tactics employed by government entities, suggesting a coordinated effort against dissenters. The historical context of these actions provides the backdrop to Sarungi Tsehai’s abduction, emphasizing the precarious situation for human rights advocates in the region.
The kidnapping of Maria Sarungi Tsehai exemplifies the difficult and dangerous environment faced by activists in East Africa, particularly those opposing governmental authorities. The incident raises significant concerns regarding transnational repression and the safety of political dissenters amidst forthcoming elections. With both Tanzanian and Kenyan authorities implicated in such actions, it remains crucial for international observers and human rights organizations to advocate for the protection of activists and hold governments accountable for any involvement in abduction and coercion.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
