Ugandan human rights activists are calling for an official apology from the Tanzanian government over its treatment of Agather Atuhaire and Boniface Mwangi.

Atuhaire and her Kenyan counterpart, Mwangi, were arrested in Tanzania on May 19 while observing court proceedings in a treason case against Chadema party member Tundu Lissu. Following her release, Atuhaire was abandoned at the Uganda-Tanzania border in Mutukula.

Activist Dennis Ayub expressed relief at Atuhaire’s safe return but condemned the abduction, torture, and broader human rights violations occurring across East Africa. He insisted that Tanzanian authorities must be held accountable for Atuhaire’s detention and the alleged mistreatment she endured while in custody.

Ayub and fellow activists are demanding a formal apology from Tanzania for the unlawful detention and torture of both individuals, along with immediate compensation for the physical and psychological harm they suffered.

Kato Tumusiime, another activist in the delegation, revealed that they have formally contacted the Tanzanian government through its embassy in Uganda, signaling their intent to pursue legal action. He also mentioned plans to petition the courts over the abduction and rights violations against Atuhaire and Mwangi.

Muhwezi Joshua from the Agora Centre for Research reaffirmed their commitment to combating human rights abuses in Uganda and across Africa, despite political challenges in the region.

Makana Kennedy, a youth representative in the East African Parliament, urged regional governments to take a firm stance against abductions and unlawful arrests, which have become increasingly common.