In an escalating confrontation between Tanzanian authorities and opposition groups, police on Monday arrested numerous opposition leaders and journalists in Dar es Salaam, including the prominent figure Tundu Lissu. The arrests occurred ahead of planned peaceful protests aimed at urging the government to address the mysterious abductions of opposition members in recent months.
Amnesty International East Africa confirmed the arrest, noting that the Tanzanian government had banned the rallies, citing security concerns. Despite this, the opposition party Chadema called on citizens to participate in the demonstrations. The situation intensified as police blocked access to the homes of opposition leaders and increased their presence throughout Dar es Salaam to prevent any unrest.
In a report released by Tanzanian police, authorities claimed to have arrested 14 people, including Chadema chairman Freeman Mbowe and Lissu, for defying the protest prohibition. Contrarily, Chadema released a list stating that around 27 individuals were detained. The party also condemned the police action and called on the authorities to respect constitutional rights and avoid excessive force to control the demonstrations.
According to the Citizen Tanzania, Freeman Mbowe was arrested while addressing journalists, whereas Tundu Lissu was taken from his home in Tegeta. The situation highlights ongoing political suppression and human rights abuses directed at critics of President Samia Suluhu’s administration.
Later on Monday, Chadema announced that both Tundu Lissu and Freeman Mbowe, along with Benson Kigaila, were released on bail. The party officials are now working diligently to secure bail for other arrested members and citizens. The dramatic crackdown follows the recent killing of Ally Mohammed Kibao, another member of Chadema’s secretariat, which put the nation under further scrutiny.
For more details, see the complete report on Jurist.