Tanzanian authorities have arrested and deported human rights activists from Kenya and Uganda who traveled to Dar es Salaam to observe a hearing in the treason case against detained opposition leader Tundu Lissu.
Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan lawyer Agather Atuhaire were among those deported after attending Lissu’s first court appearance on Monday.
The Tanzania Law Society confirmed their deportation, stating they were repatriated under the escort of officers from the Tanzania Immigration Services Department.
Mwangi was allegedly arrested for providing false information to gain entry into the country, while the basis for Atuhaire’s detention remains unclear.
Lissu, who faces treason charges over a speech calling for public rebellion and election disruption, urged his supporters to remain fearless during the hearing, which was adjourned until June 2.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has warned foreign activists against interfering in Tanzania’s affairs, despite stating her government’s commitment to respecting human rights.
Several other Kenyan human rights activists were denied entry to Tanzania, sparking concerns over the government’s crackdown on opposition.
