MP Maalim applauds Tanzania for deporting Boniface Mwangi
Maalim suggested that the two activists were advancing agendas that did not align with the region's interests.
Dadaab Member of Parliament Farah Maalim has commended Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu for expelling activists Boniface Mwangi and Agather Atuhaire from the country.
In a statement issued on Saturday, May 24, 2025, Maalim—known for his outspoken nature—suggested that the two activists were advancing agendas that did not align with the region's interests.
Farah Maalim has labeled Boniface Mwangi and his fellow activist Agather Atuhaire as operatives of what he describes as a "well-funded modern-day imperialist agenda."
According to the Dadaab MP, their actions go beyond human rights activism, amounting instead to what he termed as treasonous and anarchic mercenary work.
“Why didn’t they raise their voices against the mass killing of civilians in Gaza? Or stand in solidarity with leaders like Ibrahim Traore? Why have they remained silent on the looting of African resources by global powers such as France, the US, and the UK? Where were their protests against the atrocities committed in Sudan by the RSF, backed by Israel, the UAE, and the West?" Maalim questioned.
He further accused the two of undermining African culture, claiming they represent the front line in an assault on traditional values.
"These individuals are spearheading attacks on our African heritage. I commend President Samia Suluhu for safeguarding Tanzania from agents of neo-colonial influence," he said.
Farah Maalim was expelled from the Wiper Democratic Party on January 15, 2025, following contentious comments he made while accompanying President William Ruto on a tour.
Kalonzo Musyoka, the party leader, announced the decision, stating, "To set the record straight, Farah Maalim—who has served as the deputy party leader—is hereby expelled from the Wiper Democratic Movement for breaching the party's constitution and infringing on the rights of Kenyans."
Maalim’s remarks follow closely on the heels of reports that Ugandan activist and journalist Agather Atuhaire was found abandoned at the Uganda-Tanzania border on Friday, May 23, 2025—four days after she and Boniface Mwangi were taken into custody.
Boniface Mwangi revealed that he and Agather Atuhaire were tortured during their three-day detention in Tanzania before being separated and deported.
The two had traveled to observe the treason trial of opposition leader Tundu Lissu but were arrested and barred from attending the court session.
Their detention prompted intervention from the Kenyan and Ugandan embassies.
President Samia Suluhu later defended the deportations, warning that Tanzania would not allow foreign activists to disrupt its peace.
