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Over the past week, Tanzanian police Arbitrary arrest 375 members and supporters of the country’s main opposition Democratic Progressive Party (Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo, or Chadema). They include former presidential candidate TondulisuParty Chairman Freeman Mboparty youth wing leader John Pambalu and Several journalistsThe arrests came ahead of the party’s plans to celebrate International Youth Day on August 12 in the city of Mbeya.
On August 11, the police Announce They banned the event because it was intended to “disrupt the peace.” They cited a recent statement by the Chadema Youth Wing Mobilization Coordinator, which referred to recent youth-led protests in neighboring Kenya. However, the authorities did allow Another International Youth Day celebration The rally, organized by the ruling party, was held in Zanzibar two days ago.
police explain On August 13, they released Lissu, Mbowe and other party leaders after questioning without filing criminal charges. But the crackdown is a bad sign as Tanzania prepares for local elections later this year and a general election in 2025.
Samia Suluhu Hassan took office in March 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli. Some measures Improve Tanzania’s human rights record. Under Magufuli’s leadership, violations of fundamental rights have escalated, including a violent crackdown on the opposition. October 2020 election.
However, progress has been uneven. In July 2021, police Arrested Mbowe and 11 other Chadema members Mbowe was detained for seven months before trial on terrorism charges. Released. In 2023, the authorities Arrested and threatened dozens of critics The government has not prosecuted any security forces members. At least 14 people were killed and 55 injured.and defeated opposition supporters in Zanzibar during the 2021 elections.
The rights to freedom of association and peaceful assembly are guaranteed by Tanzania’s constitution and by regional and international treaties ratified by the country. The authorities should reverse this troubling trend and ensure that the political opposition and others critical of the government enjoy these fundamental rights.
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