Court Summons Police IG Over Missing Tanzanian Activist Twaha Mwaipaya

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja

The High Court has ordered Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to explain the disappearance of Tanzanian activist Twaha Mwaipaya. The activist has been missing for more than a week.

Justice Alexander Muteti issued the summons on Monday, November 2. He questioned the State’s failure to establish Mwaipaya’s whereabouts or clarify whether he had been deported.

The judge said Kanja was best placed to address possible police involvement. He directed the police chief to explain whether State agents abducted and transferred the activist to Tanzania without following due process.

Justice Muteti also criticised the government for failing to file an affidavit addressing the matter. He said the Attorney General should assist the court in matters involving the liberty of foreign nationals.

Mwaipaya was reportedly taken by unidentified individuals on Sunday, October 25. His disappearance prompted lawyers to seek court intervention and demand that authorities account for him.

The State told the court that Mwaipaya was neither in police custody nor held by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations. It maintained that investigations into his disappearance were ongoing.

The judge declined to summon DCI Director Mohamed Amin separately. He explained that the Inspector General exercises overall authority over police matters.

Senior Counsel Martha Karua, representing Vocal Africa, had sought the personal attendance of both police chiefs. She argued that authorities were notified about the disappearance on October 25 but failed to act urgently.

Karua questioned why the State said investigations began on October 26. She argued that police should not delay investigations while waiting for formal service of court orders.

State Counsel Marwa opposed the application on behalf of Kanja and Amin. He maintained that investigations were underway and neither agency had Mwaipaya in custody.

Kanja is expected to appear before Justice Muteti on Tuesday, November 3. He will be required to address the court on the activist’s whereabouts and possible involvement of State agents.