Human Rights activist Boniface Mwangi has spoken out about the harrowing experience he endured during his recent detention in Tanzania, describing four days of severe torture that left him barely able to walk.
Speaking after his release on the evening of Thursday, May 22, 2025, Mwangi revealed the physical and emotional toll of his ordeal at the hands of the Tanzanian authorities before being deported to Kenya.
“I have gone through four dark days; I have been tortured very badly. I can barely walk,” Mwangi narrated.
He extended his gratitude to the public and supporters who raised their voices and stood in solidarity during his detention.
“Thank you to everyone who spoke and stood with us; the solidarity was not in vain,” he added.
Mwangi also expressed deep concern for his fellow detainee, Ugandan journalist and lawyer Agather, with whom he was held and subjected to similar brutal treatment.
“I am very concerned about Agather because we were tortured together, and they did very horrible things to us. So, I hope Agather is safe,” he stated.
The release comes after the Kenyan government wrote a protest letter to the Tanzanian government over the lack of access to activist Boniface Mwangi following his arrest in the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that since Mwangi’s arrest, consular officials were able to access him despite several requests.
It added that it was concerned about his health and well-being, as information about his whereabouts remained unknown.
“The Ministry notes that, despite several requests, officials of the Government of Kenya have been denied consular access and information to Mr. Mwangi. The Ministry is also concerned about his health, overall wellbeing and the absence of information regarding his detention,” the letter by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs read in part.
