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A tragic incident has shaken Tanzania’s political landscape as a senior member of the opposition, Ally Kibao, was found dead on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam. The main opposition Chadema party reported that Kibao was abducted from a bus by armed men and subjected to severe beatings, with acid poured on his face. His body was discovered a day after he was taken from a bus travelling from Dar es Salaam to Tanga.
The killing of Ally Kibao has raised concerns about the country’s democratic credentials, especially as Tanzania gears up for local and general elections. President Samia Suluhu Hassan condemned the “assassination” and called for a thorough investigation into the incident. However, Chadema’s secretary-general, John Mnyika, pointed fingers at the Tanzania Intelligence and Security Service (TISS) as the main suspect and accused President Suluhu Hassan of being the sponsor of TISS.
Since assuming office after the death of former President John Magufuli, President Suluhu Hassan has made efforts to distance herself from her predecessor’s repressive policies and initiate political reforms. Last year, she lifted a ban on opposition rallies and allowed the return of exiled opposition figures like Tundu Lissu.
However, recent events have cast a shadow over Tanzania’s political landscape, with several opposition figures disappearing in mysterious circumstances. Tundu Lissu raised concerns about the disappearance of Chadema’s leader, Deus Soka, and the Tanganyika Law Society highlighted the cases of 83 individuals who had gone missing in recent months.
Amnesty International’s deputy regional director for east and southern Africa, Sarah Jackson, expressed deep concern over the mass arrests and arbitrary detentions of opposition figures, calling it a worrying sign ahead of the upcoming elections. The situation has sparked calls for an independent investigation to ensure accountability and justice for the victims.
The tragic death of Ally Kibao serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Tanzania’s democratic process and underscores the importance of upholding human rights and the rule of law. As the country prepares for crucial elections, it is imperative that all stakeholders work together to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.
