Nairobi, Kenya – Prominent Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai, a vocal critic of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, was abducted by armed men in the Kenyan capital on Sunday afternoon, but was released hours later.
The incident, which has raised concerns about the safety of political dissidents and the potential for cross-border abductions, unfolded rapidly. Amnesty International Kenya spokesperson Roland Ebole confirmed that Ms. Tsehai was “forced” into a vehicle in Nairobi.
Hours later, Ms. Tsehai appeared in a video shared on social media, visibly shaken but relieved, stating, “I have been saved.” 
The Law Society of Kenya President, Faith Odhiambo, confirmed that they had intervened to secure her release, issuing a strong warning: “We will not allow our country to be used as a haven for picking up individuals.”
Ms. Tsehai is a prominent advocate for land rights and freedom of expression in Tanzania. Her outspoken criticism of President Hassan, who has been accused of backtracking on democratic reforms, has made her a target.
Concerns have been mounting that Tanzania is reverting to the repressive rule of the late President John Magufuli, despite President Hassan’s initial promises of political liberalization. Last year saw a surge in arrests of opposition figures, including the brutal killing of a senior opposition leader.
Change Tanzania, a movement founded by Ms. Tsehai, issued a statement alleging that she was likely abducted by Tanzanian security agents operating beyond their borders to silence dissent.
This incident echoes the 2021 abduction of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye in Nairobi by Ugandan security officials. While the Kenyan government denied involvement, the Ugandan government acknowledged Kenyan assistance in the operation.
Kenya has faced increasing scrutiny over its role in facilitating cross-border abductions, a violation of international law. Internally, the country has been grappling with a wave of disappearances following youth-led protests against tax increases.
The abduction of Ms. Tsehai serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by political dissidents in the region and the urgent need for greater protection for human rights and democratic freedoms.
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