Clarification on Recent Arrests of Opposition Figures in Tanzania: A Call for Accurate Reporting

Recent events in Mbeya, Tanzania, involving the arrest of BAVICHA (the youth wing of the opposition party CHADEMA) members and others reportedly gathering for what they claimed to be a major International Youth Day demonstration, have sparked confusion among the public. Some international media outlets have reported on these incidents without first seeking clarification from Tanzanian authorities, leading to widespread misinformation.

According to Article 20 of the Tanzanian Constitution, and Sections 11(4) and (5) of the Political Parties Act, individuals have the right to assemble and express their opinions, including holding demonstrations, provided they notify the local police chief of their intent. Once this notification is given, the political party may proceed with the demonstration unless instructed otherwise by the police chief.

The law requires any citizen or group planning a demonstration to submit a written notice to the relevant Police Chief at least 48 hours before the event, detailing the purpose of the demonstration. As of now, there has been no evidence that such a notice was provided by BAVICHA or any involved party to the Regional Police Commander of Mbeya. If such a notice exists, BAVICHA or CHADEMA leaders should make it public.

We urge international media and activists who are spreading reports about alleged violations of democracy to provide proof of the official notice. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, a strong proponent of democracy through her 4Rs philosophy—Reconciliation, Resilience, Reforms, and Rebuilding—remains committed to democratic principles but does not condone actions contrary to the Constitution and laws of Tanzania.

Moreover, it has been reported that some of those detained include foreign nationals from Malawi and Zambia. These individuals entered Tanzania without any financial means, raising serious questions about who is funding their presence and for what purpose. If BAVICHA invited these foreign youths for the Youth Day event, where are the invitation letters detailing their purpose in the country?

The presence of foreign nationals under such unusual circumstances should raise alarms for security agencies. Many internal conflicts worldwide have been exacerbated by mercenaries from other nations. While Tanzania is welcoming to foreigners, they must enter the country legally and with clear, declared purposes. Tanzanians abroad are expected to respect the laws of their host countries, and it is only fair to expect the same from foreigners in Tanzania.

We request that international media and foreign agencies reporting on this issue:
1. Consult with CHADEMA leaders about the proper procedure for holding demonstrations in Tanzania and verify whether these procedures were followed.
2. Adhere to journalistic standards by seeking clarification from Tanzanian authorities before disseminating information that could undermine the nation’s peace and stability.

Finally, we urge Tanzanians to critically evaluate unofficial and misleading information. We encourage citizens to inquire with CHADEMA leaders about the demonstration procedures and request evidence of compliance.

It is important to address a pertinent question: How can the same government reject CHADEMA’s planned Youth Day rally while allowing a similar rally by the opposition party ACT-Wazalendo, which took place recently in Zanzibar?

Under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership, Tanzania remains steadfast in its commitment to democratic principles and human rights while upholding its primary duty of maintaining national security and stability.

I would like to remind both Tanzanians and the international community that it was President Samia Suluhu Hassan who reversed the previous order banning political rallies and protests in Tanzania. It was the same President Samia Suluhu Hassan who was awarded by CHADEMA for promoting unity and dialogue. It was this same President who, in January, instructed the police to protect CHADEMA members during their protests.

Tanzanians will not allow their peace and security to be sabotaged under any pretense. The nation remains vigilant in safeguarding the hard-earned stability that has been a hallmark of our country, and any actions that threaten this will be met with the necessary legal and constitutional measures.