Protests Erupt in Tanzania as Country Votes
The protests come as voter turnout remains low, with several polling stations especially in Dar es Salaam, remaining almost empty hours after opening.
The protests come as voter turnout remains low, with several polling stations especially in Dar es Salaam, remaining almost empty hours after opening.
They highlighted a silent epidemic of abductions and enforced disappearances, referencing the cases of CHADEMA leaders Tundu Lissu and John Heche, as well as former ambassador Humphrey Polepole, who all remain in detention or missing.
The award was presented by former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo during the Democrat Union of Africa (DUA) Forum 2025, held in Nairobi, Kenya, on October 28.
The statement accuses Tanzanian authorities of violating human rights through unlawful detention, enforced disappearances and the silencing of opposition voices.
In a statement posted on his official X account on October 26, Lissu said his prison cell has been fitted with CCTV cameras that record all his movements, even during private moments.
His request for bail was denied, as treason is considered a non-bailable offence under Tanzanian law.
His whereabouts remain unknown, while party leader Tundu Lissu remains in custody with his treason trial pushed to November 3
The party said this deepens fears about his safety and the growing pattern of intimidation against opposition figures ahead of the October 29 general election.
With less than a week to Tanzania’s general election, pressure is mounting over the disappearance of opposition figures and growing silence from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who continues with her nationwide campaign trail.
Platforms like Telegram and Clubhouse have also faced slowdowns, with many users saying they struggle to join discussions without VPNs.