Karua Leads African Activists in Petition to AU: “Hold Suluhu Accountable for Illegal Detentions!”
In a powerful letter dated Thursday, May 22, the group called on the African Union (AU), East African Community (EAC), and Southern African Development Community (SADC) to intervene immediately in what they term illegal detentions and torture of Ugandan journalist Agathar Atuhaire and Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi.
“We urge the AU to investigate this disturbing violation of human rights,” Karua said in the petition.
Activists Demand Accountability from Suluhu’s Government
The letter accuses the Tanzanian government of disregarding legal protocols and torturing political dissenters. The activists asked the three regional blocs to issue diplomatic notes to Tanzanian authorities, seeking clarification on the detention of Atuhaire and the mistreatment of Mwangi.
“This is not just a humanitarian issue; it’s a sign of decaying justice in the EAC,” the letter states.
Call for International Human Rights Mechanisms
The activists also called on international human rights bodies, including the UN Special Procedures, to intervene.
“We call upon your offices to invoke applicable human rights mechanisms,” the group emphasized.
They also urged these organizations to send diplomatic observers to court proceedings against opposition leader Tundu Lissu at the Kisutu Court in Tanzania. According to them, this would help ensure fairness, transparency, and protection for activists and legal defenders involved.
Boniface Mwangi’s Release Ignites Activist Momentum
These demands follow the dramatic release of Boniface Mwangi, who was found alive in Ukunda on Thursday after three days in detention in Tanzania. His lawyer, James Wanjeri, confirmed that Mwangi had been rushed to hospital for urgent medical review.
“He sustained injuries likely from torture,” Wanjeri disclosed.
Meanwhile, Agathar Atuhaire remains in detention, fueling fears of further abuse and sparking widespread anger across East Africa.
A Regional Crisis Unfolds
Karua’s message is loud and clear: Africa cannot sit in silence as dictatorship creeps back into the region.
“This is about protecting human rights, justice, and the soul of East Africa,” Karua stressed.
The AU, EAC, and SADC have yet to issue formal responses. However, public pressure is rising, and the region is watching closely.
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Karua Leads African Activists in Petition to AU: “Hold Suluhu Accountable for Illegal Detentions!”
