This archive report was first published on 2 January 2020.
On January 2, 2020, the family of detained Tanzanian journalist Erick Kabendera received the devastating news of his mother's passing.
Verdiana Mjwahuzi, Kabendera's 80-year-old mother, had been ailing and had twice made public appeals for her son's release, stating that he was her sole breadwinner.
According to Kabendera's lawyer, Jebra Kambole, the journalist was informed of his mother's death at Segerea prison in Dar es Salaam, where he has been held since July 2020.
‘He was in apparent shock and somewhat panicked when we broke the sad news to him. He remained silent for a long time and did not utter a word,’ Kambole said.
Funeral arrangements are underway, with the family planning to transport the body on Friday for burial in Bukoba, northwestern Tanzania, as per Kabendera's mother's wishes.
Despite the emotional turmoil, Kabendera expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the public, including messages of condolence and prayers on social media.
‘He thanked all those who offered condolences and prayers for the family. He said he was touched by the love everyone was showing and wished that they accord his mother the funeral she may have wished from him,’ Kambole said.
