world 22 May 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
US Sanctions Tanzanian Police Official Over Torture Allegations
The United States has imposed sanctions on Faustine Jackson Mafwele, a senior official in the Tanzanian Police Force, for alleged gross human rights violations, including the torture of Ugandan and Kenyan activists. This action marks the first time a high-ranking official under President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration has faced foreign sanctions. Source: https://observer.ug/news/us-sanctions-tanzania-police-chief-over-torture-of-ugandan-kenyan-activists
The U.S. Department of State has officially sanctioned Faustine Jackson Mafwele, a senior assistant commissioner within the Tanzanian Police Force, citing his alleged involvement in severe human rights abuses. The sanctions were announced following credible information linking Mafwele to the mistreatment of individuals.
These allegations stem from the May 2025 detention of Ugandan journalist and activist Agather Atuhaire and Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi. The pair were arrested in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, while intending to observe the trial of opposition leader Tundu Lissu. They reportedly endured several days of detention during which they faced alleged torture and sexual assault.
Boniface Mwangi has publicly detailed his ordeal, stating he was stripped, hung upside down, beaten, and sexually assaulted while in custody. Agather Atuhaire has also come forward with similar accusations, alleging torture and rape during her detention.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the sanctions, emphasizing that Mafwele and his immediate family will now be barred from entering the United States. Atuhaire expressed her gratitude for the U.S. action, viewing it as a step towards justice. She voiced hope for further accountability and the intervention of regional bodies.
This development is significant as Mafwele is the first senior government official under the current Tanzanian administration to be targeted with foreign sanctions. The move underscores the international community’s stance against human rights violations.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)