23 people, who are leaders and members of CHADEMA in Mwanza City, have been arraigned at the Mwanza High Court on charges of planning to commit acts of terrorism.

 

While reading the charge sheet No. 1637/2026, the Director of Public Prosecutions, Counsel Maugo, said that between different dates from June 25 to July 6, 2026, at different times in Ilemela and Nyamagana districts, the accused participated in terrorism meetings where they planned to burn and destroy government buildings and infrastructure as well as private property. The plan was allegedly scheduled to be carried out on July 7, 2026.

State Counsel Maugo said the accused committed the offense contrary to Section 4(i and ii), Section 5, and Section 12 of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, together with Section 57 of the Economic and Organized Crime Control Act.

In the case, Counsel Maugo is working together with Janes Kiwelo, Senior State Counsel, and Silelo Mazura, State Counsel.

Speaking outside the court, the defense lawyer Erick Mutta said the accused were charged with two separate cases, including this one of planning to commit acts of terrorism to burn government buildings or carrying out bombings.

He said that this court does not have jurisdiction to hear the case; therefore, the accused have been remanded in custody until August 6, 2026, when they will appear for mention.

The Secretary General of CHADEMA Lake Region, Zacharia Obadi, has called on the government to stop the practice of fabricating cases aimed at harassing citizens.