Tell Kenyans where Boniface Mwangi is: Former Chief Justice David Maraga to Government

Emiratus David Maraga has called out the government of Kenya to explain why human rights activists Boniface Mwangi, along with the Ugandan counterpart lawyer Agather Atuhaire, are still detained in Tanzania.

“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,”  he said.

The former Chief Justice went ahead and condemned the government for failing to act on the urgency of bringing back Boniface Mwangi unconditionally.

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

Maraga, who also declared his intentions to run for the presidency in Kenya’s 2027 general election, urged the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs which is being handled by the Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi to give the public clear information on why Mwangi is being held, his condition, and what the government is doing to sort the matter.

“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 said.

He also expressed his support for Mwangi’s family and called for his quick and safe return.

“During this difficult time, I extend my solidarity with the family and friends of Boniface Mwangi. I pray for his swift and safe return to his wife and children,” Maraga said.

Boniface Mwangi and others who had travelled to Dar es Salaam to attend a hearing in the treason case against detained opposition leader Tundu Lissu.

Bonnie and other activists from Uganda had travelled on Monday to attend the first hearing of Lissu’s first court appearance on Monday.

Boniface Mwangi and a Ugandan lawyer, Agather Atuhaire, were arrested at Serena Hotel and were taken to the central police station in Dar es Salaam, his lawyer Jebra Kambole confirmed to AFP.