Tanzanian police arrested top opposition leaders from the Chadema party on Monday, September 23, 2024, including Chairman Freeman Mbowe and Deputy Chairman Tundu Lissu, as authorities cracked down on planned protests in Dar es Salaam. The protests were organized to mourn the abductions and killings of opposition members, with the party accusing security forces of involvement in these incidents.

In a statement released by Chadema, the party expressed its intention to peacefully demonstrate despite an official ban by the police. The protest was meant to demand justice for the disappearance and killing of its members, including the recent death of Ali Mohamed Kibao, a party official whose body was found earlier this month.

Chadema also released a preliminary statement listing those arrested, including key figures like Northern Regional Chairman Godbless Lema, Freeman Mbowe’s wife Dr. Lilian Mtei, and his daughter Nicole Mbowe, among other regional leaders and members. Riot police had been deployed with water cannons in various parts of the city to prevent any gatherings.

The party’s leadership, including Mbowe, emphasized that these protests were intended to be peaceful, urging the government to respect the constitutional rights of citizens to assemble. Mbowe, in a video shared online before his arrest, urged Tanzanians to stand firm in their demands for justice and political reforms.

“This is our constitutional right, and we are surprised by the excessive force being used by the police to intimidate people and suppress our freedom,” said Mbowe. His call was echoed by several human rights groups and international organizations, which have raised concerns about the deteriorating political climate in Tanzania.

Local police confirmed the arrests, stating they were made to prevent the banned protests. City police chief Jumanne Muliro mentioned that more than 14 people were detained, including top opposition figures, and they are currently being questioned about their roles in organizing the rally.