Vithanage Erandi Kawshalya Madhushani Jade Times Staff
V.E.K. Madhushani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Russia - Ukrain War.
Leader Urges Justice and Accountability Amid Rising Political Tensions
Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu Hassan has condemned the brutal killing of Mohamed Ali Kibao, a senior member of the main opposition party Chadema, who was kidnapped, beaten, and doused with acid. The 69 year old was abducted on Friday by suspected security agents while traveling from Dar es Salaam, the country's largest city, to his hometown Tanga. His body was later discovered in the Ununio waterfront district of Dar es Salaam.
A post mortem examination revealed that Kibao, a retired military intelligence officer who joined Chadema in 2008, had been "severely beaten and had acid poured on his face," according to Chadema chairman Freeman Mbowe. Kibao's death has sparked widespread condemnation across Tanzania, with citizens and rights groups urging the government to address the increasing reports of abductions and killings targeting opposition figures.
President Samia strongly condemned the “brutal acts” and has ordered a thorough investigation into Kibao's murder. "I have ordered the investigation agencies to bring me detailed information about this terrible incident and others like this as soon as possible," she said in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter. She emphasized the importance of protecting citizens' rights in a democratic society, stating, “Our country is a democracy, and every citizen has the right to live.”
The killing has intensified concerns among the opposition and human rights organizations about a potential crackdown on political activities in Tanzania. Mbowe highlighted the escalating dangers faced by Chadema leaders, saying, “We cannot allow our people to continue disappearing or being killed like this. The lives of Chadema leaders are currently at risk.”
Kibao's murder is part of a troubling pattern of political repression in Tanzania, with several incidents in recent months raising alarms. Last month, Chadema leaders Freeman Mbowe and his deputy Tundu Lissu were arrested after attempting to hold a youth rally, which was banned by police citing concerns that it could incite violence. In a separate incident in July, an artist was sentenced to two years in prison for allegedly burning an image of President Samia.
The recent surge in political violence has raised fears that Tanzania could be regressing to the repressive era of the late President John Magufuli, despite President Samia’s earlier promises to lift restrictions on opposition gatherings and restore competitive politics. Human Rights Watch recently warned that the increase in arrests of opposition activists is a concerning sign as the 2025 presidential elections approach.
Kibao will be laid to rest on Monday in the Darigube district of Tanga city. His death has become a rallying point for those demanding justice and accountability, as the nation watches closely how the government will handle the growing tensions and calls for political freedom.
