The Tanzania Legal and Human Rights Center (LHRC) has condemned in the strongest terms possible the arbitrary arrest of opposition leaders in the country. This comes after Chadema Vice Chairman John Heche was dramatically arrested while addressing a public rally in Kariakoo market in Dar es Salaam.
LHCR Executive Director Dk. Anna Henga noted that Heche’s arrest was against the law and fundamental principles of Human Rights.
‘’The Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) is highly concerned about the reported news of the arrest by the police force of the ChademaTz Deputy chairperson, Hon Heche John, and other members of the party while addressing the public in Karikaoo, Dar es Salaam. The arrest procedure used was degrading and contrary to the law and fundamental principles of #humanrights. #LHRC strongly condemns this type of arrest and urges the Tanzania police force @tanpol to adhere strictly to the rule of law and ensure that justice is observed” said Henga.
Heche’s arrest comes just a fortnight after the Chadema party leader, Tundu Lissu, was also arrested while addressing a political rally in Mbinga area in Ruvuma Region.
Lissu was later charged with treason and denied bail. He is currently in police custody. He will be arraigned in court on 24th April 2025.
Already, Chadema has been disqualified from the upcoming general election scheduled for October 2025.
