Tanzania Detains Opposition Leaders Over Youth Day Meeting

The Government of Tanzania has arrested leaders of the main opposition party, Chadema, on accusations that they are inciting violence.

The Chadema chairman, Freeman Mbowe and the leader of the party’s youth wing, John Pambalu, were arrested by police officers on Monday at an airport in the southwestern city of Mbeya, where they planned to mark International Youth Day. 

Chadema’s Vice-Chairman, Tundu Lissu, had been arrested on Sunday alongside the party’s Secretary-General.

This was disclosed in a post on X by Chadema’s director of communications and foreign affairs, John Mrema, who stated that the arrests were made as the party was due to hold a rally to mark International Youth Day.

He added that about 500 youth supporters of the party were arrested and detained while making their way to the event.

The government alleged that Chadema’s youth wing sought to incite unrest and violence.

Despite relaxing restrictions on political parties, opposition leaders face violations and harassment as the country prepares for the 2025 general election. Chadema said over 400 people were in detention as a result of the government’s crackdown on critics.

President Samia Suluhu, who took over after the death of John Magufuli, is expected to run for the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.

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Oluwatobi Odeyinka

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