ARC Calls for End to Harassment of Tanzanian Artist Emanuel Mathias
Tanzania
Artist released on punitive bail conditions following month-long arbitrary detention amid post-election government violence
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
12 January 2026
(NEW YORK) – ARC – Artists at Risk Connection calls on authorities in the Republic of Tanzania to end the judicial harassment of artist Emanuel Mathias, who was released on bail on 8 January under punitive conditions after being arbitrarily detained for nearly a month, following his arrest on 11 December 2025.
“During the contentious presidential election period—both before and after the election results were announced—the Tanzanian government launched unprecedented attacks on civil society, including artists,” said Julie Trébault, ARC’s Executive Director. “Mr. Mathias was arbitrarily detained, without charge, and is now forced to live under prolonged police control. ARC remains deeply concerned for his well-being and safety and calls on the authorities to immediately end this harassment.”
On Thursday 8 January, Mr. Mathias’ lawyers successfully secured his release through a habeas corpus petition, despite authorities having failed to file any formal charges during his nearly one-month detention. According to his lawyers, the conditions the court set for the bail are extremely restrictive and punitive. These include: a requirement to report to the police once a month for eight months; that his mobile phone will be held in police custody, that he is required to provide the police with his passwords; and that police will be authorized to monitor his conduct throughout this period. Only after eight months, and subject to police approval, may the court issue him a certificate of clearance.
No legal charges have been filed against Mr. Mathias, a multimedia artist, painter, and art teacher known for his work with youth in Dar es Salaam. He was detained near his home in the Namanga–Masani area of the city, one week after his wife gave birth to their child. His month-long detention placed both mother and newborn in a situation of heightened vulnerability, while the punitive bail measures will not only impede his freedom of movement and expression, they likely will hamper his artistic work with the community.
Mr. Mathias was detained without charge for nearly a month, violating his rights under Tanzanian law, which requires the police to present an accused person before a court or release them within a maximum of 48 hours after their arrest.
In the lead-up to Tanzania’s October 2025 presidential elections and in their aftermath, civil society organizations, human rights defenders and artists faced increasing threats and attacks, as the government sought to shut down popular demonstrations and public expressions of opposition. On 4 December, UN experts, including UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan, condemned the government’s post-election lethal crackdown and nationwide digital blackout.
About ARC
ARC – Artists at Risk Connection is an international organization committed to promoting and advancing the right to artistic freedom worldwide. Founded in 2017, ARC works to protect artists and cultural workers who are at risk because of their creative expression, often connected to their identities or roles within their communities. By providing vital resources and support, ARC helps artists at risk overcome challenges like persecution, censorship, threats, and violence from both state and non-state actors—whether for their artistic expression or the broader impact they have on cultural, social, and political issues.
For press inquiries, please contact:
Adam Shapiro
Deputy Director
ARC – Artists at Risk Connection
+1 202.294.8813