Leaders of Tanzania’s major opposition party, Chadema, Freeman Mbowe and Tundu Lissu, were detained during a series of protests in the country’s commercial hub, Dar es Salaam. The demonstrations were sparked by growing discontent over government policies and calls for democratic reforms.
According to reports, security forces swiftly moved to disperse the protests, leading to the arrest of numerous party members and supporters. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the police used tear gas and other crowd control measures to break up the gatherings, resulting in chaotic scenes in the streets.
Late on Monday, it was announced via the Chadema party’s account on X that Mbowe and Lissu had been released on bond. However, despite their release, Mbowe chose to remain at the police station, stating his intention to stay until all other arrested members and supporters were granted bail.
“The decision to stay reflects our solidarity with our members who are still in custody,” Mbowe said in a statement. Lissu echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the party’s commitment to standing with their supporters during this challenging time.
The arrests and subsequent crackdown on protests have drawn criticism from human rights organizations, which argue that the government is stifling dissent and limiting freedoms. The political climate in Tanzania has been tense, with increasing restrictions on opposition parties and civil society.
As the situation unfolds, Chadema leaders are calling for greater international attention to the ongoing human rights violations in Tanzania, urging the government to respect democratic principles and allow peaceful expression of dissent.