US sanctions Tanzanian police official over 'torture' of rights activists
Summary
The US government has imposed sanctions on a senior Tanzanian police official, Faustine Jackson Mafwele, due to his alleged involvement in the torture and sexual assault of human rights activists Boniface Mwangi and Agather Atuhaire. The activists were detained in Tanzania while observing a political trial last year, and their case is part of broader concerns over human rights abuses and political repression in Tanzania.Key Facts
- Faustine Jackson Mafwele, a senior assistant police commissioner in Tanzania, is sanctioned by the US for alleged human rights violations.
- The sanctions prevent Mafwele from entering the United States.
- Activists Boniface Mwangi (Kenyan) and Agather Atuhaire (Ugandan) were detained in Tanzania in 2023 and reported torture and sexual assault while in custody.
- The Tanzanian government has not officially received the US designation and denies the allegations.
- The US says Tanzanian police officers detained and abused the activists during their detention.
- Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have called for investigations and raised concerns about a crackdown on opposition and activists in Tanzania.
- The sanctions come after disputed elections in Tanzania that resulted in widespread protests and reported deaths, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan winning with 98% of the vote.
- US lawmakers recently urged stronger actions against Tanzania over its human rights record and political repression.
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