Media: https://media2.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTcyYTQ4YTRmZnU2cDNyZGZ4dmo4cG9vcjRoeXlvbGM2cTB3aWgxd29lN3k5b3Y2eCZlcD12MV9naWZzX3NlYXJjaCZjdD1n/1yniLBmtP9lY0uCE8q/giphy.gifTitle: The Dark Reality of Tanzania’s “Sham” Trials: A Horrifying Account by East African Activists
In recent news, two prominent East African activists, Kenyan journalist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire, have shared a harrowing account of their alleged torture and sexual assault while in detention in Tanzania. The duo had traveled to the neighboring country to monitor the “sham” court case of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is part of the CHADEMA party.
Their ordeal began when they were allegedly detained by a state security official and men in plain clothes after their arrival in Tanzania. Mwangi described being stripped naked, hung upside down from a metal pole, and sexually assaulted with various objects while being forced to shout praises for President Samia Suluhu Hassan. At the same time, his colleague Atuhaire was taken into another room where she was raped.
The two activists were eventually dumped near the border after their ordeal. Tanzanian police have denied these allegations, but the US Department of State’s Bureau of Africa Affairs has expressed concern over the treatment of Mwangi and Atuhaire. This incident highlights a disturbing trend in Tanzania where opposition leaders face persecution through “sham” trials and human rights activists are subjected to torture and sexual assault while monitoring these proceedings.
The implications of this event cannot be understated, as it underscores the deteriorating state of democracy and human rights in Tanzania. With President Samia Suluhu Hassan expected to seek re-election in October, there is a growing concern that such tactics will continue if she wins another term. It is crucial for international organizations like the United Nations and Amnesty International to closely monitor these developments and take necessary action against any violations of human rights.
As we reflect on this harrowing account by Mwangi and Atuhaire, it serves as a stark reminder that even in our modern world, there are still places where individuals risk their lives simply for speaking out against oppressive regimes. It is essential to raise awareness about these issues and support those who bravely fight for justice despite the risks involved. Only through collective action can we hope to bring an end to such atrocities and ensure that every individual has a voice in shaping their future.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2025/06/07/nx-s1-5425361/torture-treason-trials-tanzania) #torture
Check out my AI projects on Hugging Face, join our community on Discord, and explore my services at GhostAI!