Tanzanian Activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai Released After Abduction in Nairobi
Maria Sarungi Tsehai, a Tanzanian activist, was kidnapped in Nairobi by armed men and later released. Her husband alleges involvement of Tanzania’s intelligence service, amid broader concerns of governmental abductions of critics in East Africa. Activists are increasingly at risk, particularly with elections approaching in Tanzania, raising urgent questions about political repression and the safety of dissenters.
Nairobi witnessed a disturbing incident involving prominent Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai, who was forcibly taken by three armed men in the Kilimani neighborhood on a Sunday afternoon. Her abduction has raised serious concerns regarding the role of Tanzania’s national intelligence service, as alleged by her husband, David Tsehai. Following her release, Sarungi Tsehai took to social media to reassure her supporters about her safety. This incident unfolds amid accusations against both the Tanzanian and Kenyan governments for their involvement in abductions of critics and activists.
Sarungi Tsehai, known for her vocal criticism of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, had sought refuge in Nairobi four years prior, having fled her homeland due to political persecution. David Tsehai described the traumatic experience of his wife’s kidnapping as the most frightening moment of his life, expressing suspicions towards the Tanzania Information and Security Services (TISS). Despite the alarming nature of the incident, responses from both Tanzanian officials and the Kenyan police have been notably absent, raising concerns about the efficiency and accountability of the institutions involved.
The climate of fear surrounding the safety of activists continues to grow, especially with past occurrences of abductions and attacks against government opponents noted in recent reports. Amnesty International’s Roland Ebole highlighted this case as another alarming instance of “transnational repression occurring on Kenyan soil,” a claim that Kenyan authorities have denied. This incident is symptomatic of a broader pattern, as seen with the recent kidnapping of a Ugandan opposition figure in Nairobi, showcasing a troubling trend of political repression in the region. The international community continues to monitor the implications of such actions, particularly with significant elections on the horizon in Tanzania.
Sarungi Tsehai expressed gratitude to her supporters through a message posted on X, stating, “I am now safe, many thanks to everyone.” Her distressing experience and the emerging narrative of state-sanctioned intimidation against dissenters underscore the perilous conditions faced by human rights activists within East Africa.
The abduction of human rights defenders in East Africa has become a critical issue, with both Tanzania and Kenya facing accusations of silencing dissenting voices. The rise of authoritarian practices has prompted many activists to seek refuge across borders, particularly in urban centers like Nairobi. Activists often report that they remain under threat even in exile, with evidence suggesting the reach of government intelligence agencies extends beyond their national borders. The political climate in Tanzania is increasingly tense with upcoming elections, exacerbating fears among those critical of the government.
The release of Maria Sarungi Tsehai following her abduction in Nairobi has intensified scrutiny of political repression in East Africa. With allegations pointing toward the involvement of Tanzania’s national intelligence service, the incident serves to highlight the ongoing risks faced by activists. As governments grapple with the legitimacy of their actions, the need for increased accountability and protection for human rights defenders remains paramount in ensuring the safety of those advocating for justice.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com