Activists have raised concern over what they describe as a worsening human rights crisis in Tanzania and Uganda, calling for the immediate release of political prisoners and urgent international intervention.
In a statement issued on Tuesday March 31, 2026, the coalition of pro-democracy movements and civil society groups warned that both countries are experiencing a sharp decline in democratic governance.
“We express grave concern over the worsening human rights situation and blatant disregard for national, regional, and international legal frameworks across East Africa,” the group said.
In Tanzania, the network points to the aftermath of the October 2025 general elections, which it says were marred by violence and serious irregularities.
“Tanzania has entered a severe constitutional and humanitarian crisis,” the statement reads.
The group cites reports of civilian deaths, enforced disappearances, and mass detentions, warning that the situation risks further instability.
Particular concern has been raised over the continued detention of opposition leader Tundu Lissu.
“Over 100 political prisoners remain detained, many facing fabricated charges such as treason and terrorism,” the network stated.
In Uganda, the group describes the situation as a “reign of terror” following the January 2026 elections.
“The state has descended into a full-blown reign of terror,” the statement says.
The network accuses authorities under President Yoweri Museveni of cracking down on opposition supporters, journalists, and civil society actors.
According to the group, thousands of individuals linked to the opposition have been detained in unofficial facilities.
“Over 2,000 supporters, activists, and journalists are currently rotting in ‘safehouses’ and military dungeons,” the statement alleges.
The continued detention of opposition figure Kizza Besigye is cited as part of what the group calls prolonged political persecution.
The network also issued an early warning to Kenya, urging citizens to remain vigilant against democratic backsliding.
“These are not isolated incidents, but a regional pattern,” the statement warns, citing expanding executive power and shrinking civic space.
The coalition is now calling on regional and international bodies, including the African Union and the United Nations, to take action.
“We demand the immediate and unconditional release of… all political prisoners,” the group said.
It also called for independent investigations into alleged abuses and sanctions against those responsible.
