Editor's Review

"I condemn the failure by the Kenyan government to show any urgency in ensuring that Boniface Mwangi is freed."

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has condemned the detention of activist Boniface Mwangi in Tanzania, calling for his immediate and unconditional release while criticizing both the Tanzanian and Kenyan governments for their handling of the matter.

In a statement on Thursday, May 22, Maraga expressed concern over the conditions surrounding Mwangi’s detention, citing violations of international human rights standards.

"I am deeply concerned by the continued detention of Boniface Mwangi by authorities in the United Republic of Tanzania without access to the courts, legal counsel or consular representation, in clear violation of international human rights law.

"I condemn the failure by the Kenyan government to show any urgency in ensuring that Boniface Mwangi is freed immediately and unconditionally," he said.

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File image of Boniface Mwangi

Maraga also called on the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs to clarify the situation and explain what steps are being taken to secure Mwangi’s release.

"I urge the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs to urgently provide the public with clear information about Boniface Mwangi’s specific circumstances; the reason the Tanzanian government continues to detain him; and what effort it is making to ensure that Tanzania complies with international human rights law," he added.

This comes barely a day after investigative journalist Njeri Mwangi broke down while addressing the media regarding the detention of Mwangi who is her husband.

While addressing the media on Wednesday, May 21, she was overwhelmed with emotions as she sought information regarding the whereabouts of her husband.

In her speech, Njeri called on Tanzanian authorities to release the activist, adding that the authorities were violating his rights.

“I last spoke to Boniface on Monday afternoon. The Tanzanian authorities are saying they have deported him, but why is there no communication? Where is Bonnie?

“Give us back Boniface, wounded or dead. It has been very agonising for my family, and it is not fair or right what they are doing to him,"she said.