East African Governments Collaborate to Suppress Dissent, Activists Claim

Kampala,Uganda – A disturbing pattern of cross-border political repression is emerging across East Africa,with governments allegedly collaborating to silence opposition voices and stifle dissent. Recent incidents involving abductions, detentions, and forced deportations are raising serious concerns about the erosion of democratic freedoms in the region.

Activist Abduction and Allegations of State-Sponsored Repression

In May, agather Atuhaire, a Journalist and Human Rights Activist, experienced firsthand the severity of this trend. While in Tanzania to observe the trial of Opposition Leader Tundu Lissu, who faced treason charges, Atuhaire was abducted from her hotel room by Individuals claiming to be Government Agents. She alleges she endured days of brutal beatings before being abandoned near the Tanzania-Uganda border.

Kenyan activists, including Presidential Aspirant Boniface Mwangi, reported similar mistreatment, including detention and deportation, while monitoring the same trial. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu hassan defended these actions, claiming the foreign observers were interfering in the country’s internal affairs.

Though, critics argue these actions represent a coordinated effort to suppress opposition, violating both the Tanzanian Constitution and the East African Community Treaty, which guarantees freedom of movement. Martha Karua, a Kenyan Politician, who was also deported, described a regional “collaboration in oppressing citizens.”

A Pattern of Transnational Repression

The alleged abduction of Atuhaire and the treatment of Kenyan activists are not isolated incidents. In January, Tanzanian Activist Maria sarungi Tsehai was reportedly abducted in Nairobi, with rights groups, including Amnesty International, linking the incident to the Tanzanian government.

In November 2024, Ugandan Opposition Figure kizza Besigye and other members of his party were arrested in Nairobi and later returned to Uganda, where Besigye faced charges, including possession of firearms. Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Details and Dialog Technology Minister, confirmed Kenyan assistance in the arrest, a claim initially denied by Kenyan authorities before being retracted.

Country	Incident	date
Tanzania	Abduction of Agather Atuhaire	May 2025
Tanzania	Abduction of Maria Sarungi Tsehai	January 2025
kenya/Uganda	Arrest and deportation of Kizza Besigye	november 2024

A recent report by Human Rights Watch documents similar cases across the East African Community, including allegations of a Rwandan citizen being killed in Uganda, with suspected Rwandan Government involvement, and the abduction of South Sudanese critics in Nairobi, allegedly linked to South Sudan’s National Security service.

Historical Roots and Growing Concerns

Experts say this practice of cross-border repression has deep roots in the region’s history. Rogers Barigayomwe, a professor at Kampala International University, recalls instances dating back to the 1960s and 70s, when critics of Ugandan Presidents milton Obote and Idi Amin sought refuge in kenya, only to be pursued by Amin’s security forces.

A 2024 Freedom House report identified the Ugandan Government as a leading perpetrator of transnational repression, alongside countries like Cambodia, Russia, and China. The report documented 1,219 incidents of repression across 48 governments between 2014 and 2024, including 73 cases in 2024 involving the targeting of three or more individuals at once. One incident involved the detention of 36 Ugandan activists in Kenya and their subsequent forced return to Uganda,where they were accused of receiving terrorist training.

Political analyst Timothy Kalyegira argues that the escalating repression is driven by growing nervousness among leaders as their countries approach elections. Governments fear collaboration between activists in the region could fuel unrest, particularly given the recent wave of protests in Kenya.

Did You Know? Transnational repression is a growing global trend, with Governments increasingly attempting to silence dissent beyond their borders.

Kato Tumusiime, a human rights lawyer, emphasizes that these actions violate essential principles of freedom of movement enshrined in the East African Community Treaty and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. However,James Kakooza,a member of the East African Legislative Assembly,defends the actions,stating that foreign nationals should not interfere in the political affairs of host countries.

Despite the risks, Atuhaire remains defiant, stating she will continue to show solidarity with human rights defenders in the region. “What happened to me in Tanzania made me stronger,” she affirmed.

Understanding Transnational Repression

transnational repression is a complex phenomenon with far-reaching consequences for democracy and human rights. While it has historical precedents, the increasing sophistication of surveillance technologies and the willingness of governments to operate across borders have heightened the threat.

the motivations behind transnational repression are varied, ranging from suppressing political opposition to silencing critical voices and maintaining authoritarian control. It frequently enough targets diaspora communities, human rights defenders, journalists, and activists.

Pro Tip: If you are concerned about potential transnational repression, consult with human rights organizations and legal experts to understand yoru rights and available protections.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is transnational repression? Transnational repression refers to actions taken by a government to silence dissent outside its borders, such as abductions, detentions, and threats.
• Is transnational repression a new phenomenon? While it has historical roots, the scale and sophistication of transnational repression have increased in recent years.
• What are the legal protections against transnational repression? The East African Community Treaty and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights guarantee freedom of movement, but these protections are often violated.
• Why are governments engaging in transnational repression? Governments frequently enough engage in it to suppress political opposition, silence critical voices, and maintain authoritarian control.
• What can be done to counter transnational repression? Increased international scrutiny, targeted sanctions, and support for civil society organizations can help counter transnational repression.

What steps can the international community take to address this growing issue of cross-border repression in East Africa? Do you believe regional organizations have a role to play in protecting activists and ensuring freedom of expression?

How are internet shutdowns impacting democratic processes in East Africa?

Escalating Restrictions on Freedom of Expression

Recent reports from human rights organizations and activists across East Africa point to a concerning trend: increased collaboration between regional governments to stifle dissent and limit fundamental freedoms. This coordinated effort,impacting countries like Uganda,Kenya,Tanzania,Rwanda,and Ethiopia,manifests in several ways,raising alarms about the shrinking space for civil society and independent journalism. The core issue revolves around political repression and the erosion of democratic governance in the region.

Tactics Employed in the Crackdown

The alleged collaboration isn’t a formal treaty, but rather a pattern of shared tactics and mutual support in suppressing opposition. These include:

* Digital Surveillance & Internet Shutdowns: Governments are increasingly utilizing elegant surveillance technology – often acquired from international vendors – to monitor activists, journalists, and opposition figures. Internet shutdowns, particularly during elections or periods of protest, are becoming commonplace. examples include the complete internet blackout in Ethiopia during the Tigray conflict and periodic disruptions in Uganda during election cycles. This impacts internet freedom substantially.

* Cross-Border Harassment & Extradition Requests: Activists report facing harassment, intimidation, and even threats while traveling within East Africa. There are documented cases of governments making extradition requests for individuals critical of their regimes, even for offenses that wouldn’t be considered crimes in the requesting country. This creates a climate of fear and restricts freedom of movement.

* Restrictive Legislation & NGO Regulations: New laws and amendments to existing legislation are being used to tighten control over civil society organizations. These frequently enough include onerous registration requirements,limitations on funding,and restrictions on advocacy work. Tanzania’s NGO Act of 2018 is a prime example, widely criticized for its restrictive provisions. this directly affects civil society organizations and their ability to operate.

* Attacks on journalists & Media Outlets: Journalists critical of the government face intimidation,arrest,and even physical violence. Media outlets are subjected to censorship, licensing restrictions, and financial pressure. the closure of independent media houses in Uganda and the harassment of journalists in Rwanda are well-documented. This undermines press freedom and access to information.

* Weaponization of Cybersecurity Laws: Broadly worded cybersecurity laws are being used to criminalize online expression and target individuals who criticize the government on social media. This chills online activism and self-censorship.

Case study: The Uganda-Rwanda tensions & Repression

The strained relationship between Uganda and Rwanda, while ostensibly a bilateral dispute, has also been linked to the suppression of dissent. Accusations of each country supporting opposition groups operating within the other’s borders have been accompanied by increased restrictions on individuals perceived as sympathetic to the opposing side. This included alleged deportations and surveillance of Rwandan nationals in Uganda and vice versa. This exemplifies regional security concerns being used as a pretext for repression.

The Role of Regional Bodies

The East African Community (EAC) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Progress (IGAD) have been largely silent on these issues, failing to adequately address the deteriorating human rights situation. Critics argue that these regional bodies prioritize economic cooperation and political stability over the protection of fundamental freedoms. This lack of accountability emboldens governments to continue their repressive practices.The effectiveness of regional integration is being questioned in light of these human rights concerns.

Impact on Human Rights Defenders & Activists

The consequences for human rights defenders and activists are severe:

* Increased Risk of Arbitrary Arrest & Detention: Activists are routinely arrested on trumped-up charges and subjected to prolonged detention without due process.

* Threats to Personal Safety: activists and their families face threats of violence and intimidation.

* Self-Censorship & reduced Civic Engagement: The climate of fear discourages individuals from speaking out against injustice and participating in civic life.

* Forced Exile: Many activists have been forced to flee their countries to seek safety elsewhere. This leads to a brain drain and loss of valuable expertise.

The Influence of External Actors

While regional collaboration is central, external actors also play a role. Some Western governments have been criticized for prioritizing security cooperation with East African nations over human rights concerns. Arms sales and security assistance,without adequate safeguards,can inadvertently contribute to the repressive capacity of these governments. The issue of foreign policy and its impact on human rights is crucial.

Monitoring and Reporting: Key Organizations

Several organizations are actively monitoring and reporting on the situation:

* Human Rights Watch: Provides detailed reports and advocacy on human rights abuses in East Africa.

* Amnesty International: Campaigns for the release of prisoners of conscience and the protection of human rights.

* Reporters Without Borders: Advocates for press freedom and the protection of journalists.

* CIVICUS: A global civil society alliance that monitors and defends civic space.

* DefendDefenders: A Pan-African human rights association that protects human rights defenders.

Practical Tips for Activists & Journalists

Given the heightened risks, activists and journalists operating in east Africa should consider the following:

1. Digital Security Training: Invest in training on secure communication, data encryption, and online privacy.
2. Risk Assessment: Regularly assess the risks associated with their work and develop mitigation strategies.
3. Networking & Solidarity: