The Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Tanzania (TEC), Father Charles Kitima, has expressed deep concern and outrage over the actions of police during recent unrest in the country. In a statement to the press, Father Kitima revealed that health workers at a Catholic hospital were prevented from treating injured individuals and were instead instructed by police to transport the victims to the morgue.

“We have a hospital, and patients came for treatment. The police came and said we should not treat them, we should take them to the morgue,” Father Kitima said, highlighting the distressing incident that has sparked widespread concern.

Fr. Kitima added, “Our work as health professionals is to save lives first.” He added that if a patient has any criminal issues, the law will take its course once they are medically stable.

The TEC official condemned the police’s actions, stating that they caused significant distress to medical professionals who were simply trying to uphold their oath to provide care to those in need. The incident underscores growing tensions between authorities and healthcare providers in Tanzania, raising questions about the protection of human rights and access to medical care during times of crisis.

”It happened (people were killed). We have hospitals. We received dead bodies. Now you are telling us to hide the truth. We must admit people were killed by firearms.” Said Kitima.

The TEC SG observed that before any commission of inquiry is launched, the government must admit that hundreds were killed during demonstrations in Tanzania as a result of disputed elections.

” Truth does not need a commission of inquiry. The constitution of a commission itself means there is some truth that you know.”

The Catholic Church has long been a vocal advocate for human rights and social justice in Tanzania. This latest incident adds to a series of concerns raised by the Church about government actions and their impact on citizens’ welfare.

Kitima’s revelations come amid broader discussions about police conduct and the treatment of civilians during public gatherings and protests in Tanzania. The TEC’s statement highlights the importance of accountability and respect for medical neutrality in conflict situations.

As tensions simmer, the incident is likely to fuel ongoing debates about governance, human rights, and the role of security forces in Tanzania.