The Abducted Tanzanian lady activist who was reported missing in Kenya has been found.
The popular political and human rights activist, Maria Sarungi Tsehai who was abducted by a gang of unknown people in Kenya’s Capital City of Nairobi has finally appeared online looking safe and sound albeit shaken.
Maria, who usually organizes and coordinates discussions forums, live meetings and human right campaigns on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) Spaces as well as live meetings and virtual rallies on other online social platforms, including YouTube, Thread and Zoom to discuss political events and current affairs in Tanzania, was reported missing on Sunday afternoon of January 12, 2025.
Amnesty International was the first to report the incident.
Maria was reportedly abducted by three men with firearms and bundled into a Toyota Noah Minivan which sped off to unknown destination.
The Amnesty International Director, Irungu Houghton said the incident occurred at Chaka Place along Kilimani Street in Nairobi City.
One of the leaders of the CHADEMA opposition party, in Tanzania, Godbless Lema later also posted on his ‘X’ page, that Maria Tsehai Sarungi had been abducted at gunpoint by a gang of unknown people thus missing.
There followed a massive uproar from people in Tanzania, Kenya and overseas, including other activists, human rights bodies, politicians and international organizations all demanding the release of the outspoken lady activist.
Later at about 20:23 hours of the night, Maria emerged online, though a short video clip posted on ‘X’ (Twitter) saying she was safe and thanked all the people who raised their voices demanding her safe release.
In the video clip Maria was seen surrounded by four other people and she was speaking emotionally.
“I can’t thank you all enough. I am taking a rest but tomorrow will have time to express my gratitude properly,” said Maria Tsehai.
Maria also happens to be the daughter of the former Tanzanian cabinet minister, Prof Philemon Sarungi who at one time in the past, served as the Minister of Defense.