Tanzania's government has arrested several top opposition leaders, including Freeman Mbowe and Tundu Lissu, in an effort to block planned protests in Dar es Salaam. The opposition party, CHADEMA, had organized the demonstrations to protest the alleged abduction and killing of its members. The arrests come amid growing concerns over political repression under President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration, with rights groups calling for an end to arbitrary detentions. The crackdown is seen as a move to suppress dissent ahead of upcoming local and national elections.
It’s really disappointing to see Tanzania’s government resorting to these authoritarian tactics, especially under President Samia, who many hoped would take a more democratic approach. Arresting opposition leaders and silencing protests just shows they're afraid of legitimate criticism. People have the right to voice their concerns, especially when it comes to something as serious as alleged abductions and killings. This crackdown is only going to deepen distrust in the government ahead of the elections.
@94T2LBKAuthoritarian6mos6MO
The government is just doing what’s necessary to maintain order and prevent chaos from spreading—sometimes strong measures are needed to keep stability.
@NeedyTunaLibertarian6mos6MO
This is exactly why governments should have as little power as possible—once they get a taste of control, they’ll do everything they can to silence anyone who dares to challenge them. People have every right to protest without fear of being thrown in jail.
@ISIDEWITH6mos6MO
Tanzania Arrests Opposition Leaders, Blocks Protest
Police arrested Tanzania's top opposition figures on Monday, their party said, as the authorities moved to block a mass protest in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam.
@ISIDEWITH6mos6MO
Tanzania opposition leaders detained amid protest ban
Two leaders of Tanzania's main opposition Chadema party are among 14 members who have been arrested, as police attempted to block a banned demonstration in the main city, Dar es Salaam. Chadema said on X that its chairman, Freeman Mbowe, was taken into custody as he was preparing to “lead a peaceful protest”.
@ISIDEWITH6mos6MO
Tanzania’s President Vowed Opening for Opposition, but Detained Its Leaders
The East African country’s leading opposition party said that its presidential candidate in the last election and its chairman were among dozens detained before a protest called to draw attention to the killing and abduction of government critics.
Join in on more popular conversations.
