Tanzanian Activist Allegedly Abducted in Kenya

According to human rights group Amnesty International, Mwaipaya was reportedly abducted at around 2 pm while travelling by taxi to visit friends in Kamulu, Machakos County.

The individuals involved were travelling in three vehicles, including a Toyota Land Cruiser Hardtop, according to the rights group.

“Twaha Mwaipaya, a Tanzanian national, was reportedly abducted at around 2 pm today in Kamulu, Machakos County, by individuals travelling in three vehicles, including a Toyota Land Cruiser hardtop. He was travelling by taxi to visit friends," Amnesty International stated. 

Popular Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi also confirmed the news of the disappearance of the fellow activist, and confirmed that she, in coordination with the relevant human rights bodies, is working round the clock to track him.

She also called on the Kenyan authorities to close off the Namanga border between Kenya and Tanzania in particular, as well as establish checkpoints to help secure his freedom.

"We appeal to those who can to head to the borders, especially the Namanga border, to ensure that any Toyota Hardtops are inspected. We trust you, our brothers and sisters in Kenya," Sarungi stated. 

Twaha Mwaipaya is a Tanzanian human rights defender and political commentator who serves as national mobilization coordinator for Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA’s) youth wing, Baraza la Vijana la CHADEMA (BAVICHA), a position he has held since 2019.

Mwaipaya advocates for a new constitution to replace Tanzania’s 1977 framework, arguing that it concentrates excessive power in the executive. He has also criticised police brutality, corruption and alleged human rights violations.

He has been a vocal critic of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, accusing it of suppressing dissent and opposing constitutional reforms. He has also challenged security agencies over alleged abuses and called for greater accountability.

This incident comes as both Kenya and Tanzania have been on the spot over the silencing of critics, journalists and human rights activists, raising concerns about cross-border repression and attacks on government critics.

For instance, Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi was abducted in Nairobi’s Kilimani neighbourhood in November 2025 before being released hours later, while Kenyan activist Mwabili Mwagodi in early this year was reportedly seized in Tanzania and later found in a thicket in Kwale County.

Regionally, Uganda has also not been left out, as the country reportedly ranked dismally on the facet of fundamental rights not only for political opponents like Bobi Wine and Kizza Besigye, but for the citizens at large.