There’s growing global concern over what’s happening in East Africa, and now, the United States is speaking out. US Senator Jim Risch has strongly criticized Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania over a rising trend of abductions, torture, and human rights violations.
In a statement posted on Thursday, May 29, Risch warned that these aren’t just random cases. According to him, the pattern shows that governments in the region are failing their people and allowing a culture of impunity, where those responsible for abuse are not held accountable. He said these incidents could damage not only local peace but also the wider security interests of the United States in East Africa.
“Rising abductions and torture in East Africa signal more than abuse,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “They expose state decay and impunity. That’s a direct threat to regional stability, security, and U.S. interests.”
This warning follows major backlash against Tanzania after the recent detention and alleged torture of Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan journalist Agather Atuhaire. The two had traveled to Tanzania to attend a court hearing for opposition leader Tundu Lissu, but were detained even before stepping into the courtroom.
Boniface Mwangi, a well-known voice for justice in Kenya, described the experience as traumatic and inhumane. He said they were kept in solitary cells, denied access to lawyers or even basic legal rights. After being held in poor conditions, both Mwangi and Atuhaire were deported.
Atuhaire is no stranger to international attention. She received the International Women of Courage Award from the US State Department in 2024. The US Bureau of African Affairs has now called on Tanzanian authorities to urgently investigate the matter and take action against those responsible.
But Tanzania isn’t alone. Kenya has also seen several disturbing cases, especially during the 2024 anti-government protests. Activist Bob Njagi was missing for 32 days and later revealed he had been tortured. Others, like Bernard Kavuli, Peter Muteti, Kibet Bull, and Billy Mwangi, were also reported abducted but eventually found alive.
Even Uganda’s opposition leader, Kizza Besigye, was caught up in the chaos. While in Nairobi last November, he was taken into custody and forcibly returned to Uganda, where he now faces treason charges.
All these incidents paint a worrying picture of increasing political repression in the region. The call from Senator Risch and the US government adds to growing international pressure on East African leaders to respect human rights and end state-sponsored intimidation.
By Lucky Anyanje
