The Tanzania political crisis worsened this week as the government cracked down hard ahead of elections. On Thursday, riot police broke up a gathering of Chadema party supporters outside a court in Dar es Salaam. Their leader, Tundu Lissu, was due to appear on treason charges.
Police killed one party member during the chaos. In addition, they arrested dozens more and dumped them, badly hurt, outside the city. As a result, the violence fueled fresh anger across the country and abroad.
Meanwhile, inside the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court, confusion ruled. Officials suddenly moved the hearing online without warning. However, Lissu, a skilled lawyer, refused to join by video. His defense team argued the move broke the law. Therefore, the judge delayed a decision until April 29.
In another courtroom, a second judge rejected similar arguments. He ruled that treason cases could go ahead without the accused present. The next hearing will happen on May 6 as prosecutors finish gathering evidence.
Many observers believe the Tanzania political crisis is growing worse. Critics say the government is trying to silence rivals before the vote set for October or November.
Tundu Lissu has called for strong reforms to fix Tanzania’s election system. His growing popularity made him a major threat to the ruling CCM party. As a result, many see his arrest as a political move.
On Thursday, security officers kept most observers out of the court. Although a few diplomats were allowed inside, reporters were blocked completely.
By Friday afternoon, global leaders stayed mostly quiet. However, Kenyan opposition leader Martha Karua, who attended the hearing, spoke out. She warned that East Africa is sliding toward authoritarian rule.
“The EAC is becoming a tool to steal citizens’ rights,” Karua said. “Therefore, we must come together to protect our freedoms.”
Early Thursday, police arrested Chadema leaders John Heche and John Mnyika. Thankfully, they were released late at night without charges.
In addition, police arrested party member Hilda Newton for posting updates online. She returned bruised after spending the night in custody. Party spokesperson Brenda Rupia confirmed the arrest and said more details would follow.
Overall, the Tanzania political crisis shows no sign of ending soon. As elections near, the world is starting to pay closer attention to Dar es Salaam.
