Tanzanian Activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai Abducted in Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya – January 12, 2025 In a disturbing development within the realm of human rights advocacy in East Africa, Maria Sarungi Tsehai, a prominent Tanzanian activist and critic of the Tanzanian government, was reportedly abducted in Nairobi, this afternoon.

According to report by Amnesty Kenya who confirmed the incident, the abduction took place around 3:15 PM EAT near Chaka Place in Nairobi’s upscale Kilimani area.

Amnesty reports that three armed men in a black Noah vehicle forcibly took Sarungi from the location as she was leaving Yaya Centre.

Maria Sarungi Tsehai is well-known for her activism, particularly through her “Change Tanzania” campaign, which she initiated on social media platforms to advocate for political and social reforms in Tanzania. Her outspoken critique of the current Tanzanian administration under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, especially regarding human rights and governance issues, has made her a significant figure in the region’s political landscape.

Amnesty International Kenya has confirmed the abduction, urging the public to spread the word to help keep Sarungi safe. “Ms. Maria Sarungi Tsehai, a Tanzanian independent media editor and human rights defender, was kidnapped by three armed men. We are actively seeking information and working to secure her release,” a statement from Amnesty Kenya read.

The abduction also comes barely a month after Uganda’s opposition leader Kizza Besigye was abducted by armed men in Nairobi only to end up in an Ugandan military prison.

This latest kidnapping has raised alarms about the safety of activists in East Africa, pointing to a broader issue of harassment and intimidation faced by those who voice opposition or critique against established powers.

Further reports indicate that Sarungi had been under surveillance and faced threats due to her criticism of the Tanzanian government, highlighting the potential political motivations behind her abduction.

Human rights organizations, civil society, and international observers are now calling for swift action from both Kenyan and Tanzanian authorities to locate and ensure the safety of Sarungi. There is a growing fear among activists that such abductions could deter open discourse and activism, stifling democracy in the region.

The Kenyan government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident, but there is an expectation for a prompt response given Kenya’s role in regional human rights discussions and its position within the UN Human Rights Commission.

The international community, including human rights groups and supporters on social media, are mobilizing under the hashtag #FreeMariaSarungi to demand her safe return. The situation underscores the precarious nature of activism in regions where political critique can lead to severe repercussions.

As the investigation into Maria Sarungi Tsehai’s abduction continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who dare to challenge the status quo in their quest for justice and change.

This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.