Abducted Ugandan Human Rights Defender Agather Atuhaire Found at Tanzania-Uganda Border

By Michael Torome| May 23, 2025

Agather Atuhaire was located at the Uganda-Tanzania border after days of disappearance. Photo: Courtesy

Dumped at Mutukula Border in the Dead of Night

Human rights lawyer and journalist Agather Atuhaire, who went missing earlier this week in Tanzania, has been found. Her family confirmed she was dumped late Thursday night near the Mutukula border post between Tanzania and Uganda.

“She’s alive and on her way home,” tweeted Ugandan activist Nicholas Opiyo, who also confirmed having spoken to Atuhaire shortly after her release.

Abduction Linked to Tundu Lissu Case

Atuhaire had flown to Tanzania to attend the court hearing of opposition figure Tundu Lissu. Her detention, along with Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi, raised alarm among human rights circles across East Africa.

According to Mwangi, both were allegedly tortured while in custody. Though the full extent of her injuries remains unclear, there are fears Atuhaire may have endured harsh treatment similar to Mwangi’s, who could “barely walk” after his release.

Uproar from Civil Society Groups

Regional civil society organizations have condemned the incident, calling it a violation of international human rights protections. The Ugandan High Commission in Tanzania reportedly pressured local authorities to account for Atuhaire, which may have led to her deportation.

Meanwhile, Kenyan civil rights groups have announced plans to sue the Tanzanian government over the arrests and alleged mistreatment of the two activists.

Next Steps and Health Concerns

Agather is now receiving support and is expected to undergo a medical checkup. Her colleagues and supporters remain concerned about her condition and are demanding transparency from Tanzanian authorities regarding her treatment during detention.

Related:

• Boniface Mwangi Tortured and Can’t Walk – Close Friend Reveals
• Human Rights Watch: Activists’ Rights Under Threat in East Africa