Written By Lisa Murimi
A wave of abductions, arrests, and the brutal killing of opposition figure Ali Kibao is darkening the political landscape in Tanzania, casting doubt on the democratic hopes sparked by President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s ascent to power in 2021.
While initially lauded for allowing opposition parties more freedom, recent events have left many fearing a return to the repressive era under her predecessor, John Magufuli.
In recent weeks, senior opposition leaders, including Tundu Lissu and Freeman Mbowe, have been arrested twice, while Kibao’s abduction and murder—his body doused in acid—shocked the nation.
Opposition members accuse the state of orchestrating violence, a claim the police deny. The ruling party, CCM, has remained largely silent on the accusations.
Lissu, who survived an assassination attempt in 2017, returned from exile last year, hopeful of democratic reforms.
Now, he describes the president’s initial reforms as a façade.
Rights groups and international diplomats have called for an end to arbitrary detentions and demanded independent investigations into Kibao’s killing.
President Samia has denounced the murder and ordered investigations but warned “outsiders” not to interfere in Tanzania’s affairs.
As the 2025 elections approach, her leadership faces its greatest test yet
