In Tanzania, prominent opposition leader Tundu Lissu and four other officials from the Chadema party have been arrested by police, according to the party. The detentions occurred in the town of Mbeya on the eve of a planned rally to celebrate World Youth Day. The rally, intended to highlight youth issues, was canceled by authorities who accused the event of potentially inciting violence. This decision came despite President Samia Hassan’s recent promises to support a more open political environment after lifting a ban on opposition rallies last year.
Chadema’s chairman Freeman Mbowe and the head of the party’s youth wing were also arrested on Monday. The party claimed they had not been informed about the location of their detained leaders and called for their immediate release.
Police have not officially commented on the situation. The arrests, including Lissu’s, have sparked criticism from opposition figures who accuse President Samia of continuing her predecessor’s repressive policies. This incident has raised concerns ahead of the upcoming elections in Tanzania next year.
BBC reports that this crackdown comes as President Samia faces backlash from opposition groups, who are questioning her commitment to political reform.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c6236wzv4k9o