Tanzanian police announced on Sunday the ban of a planned youth gathering organized by the main opposition party, Chadema.
Police Chief Awadh Haji justified the decision, stating that authorities had “clear indications that their aim is not to celebrate the International Youth Day but to initiate and engage in violence.”
Haji’s comments drew a connection to recent anti-government demonstrations in neighboring Kenya, which were largely led by young protesters.
Haji warned that allowing the gathering could lead to a breach of peace, emphasizing the police’s stance on maintaining order.
“Police have decided to ban any form of internal and public gathering or demonstrations which go under the name of marking the youth day,” he said.
Chadema officials swiftly condemned the ban, calling for President Samia Suluhu Hassan to intervene.
They accused law enforcement of attempting to block party convoys heading to Mbeya and reported several arrests.
Since assuming office in March 2021 following the unexpected death of former President John Magufuli, President Hassan has taken steps to distance herself from her predecessor’s repressive policies.
Notably, in January 2023, she lifted a ban on opposition rallies that had been in place since 2016, signaling a commitment to political reform.
Deputy Chairman of Chadema, Tundu Lissu, took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to challenge the police’s actions.
“President Samia, don’t bring Magufuli’s strange ways. International Youth Day is celebrated globally. Why are your police blocking Chadema youth on the road and arresting them?” Lissu declared, asserting that the event would continue as planned.
“This is not a time to stay silent, be afraid, or just talk. It’s a time to stand up and be counted. Let’s raise our voices with all our strength!”
Former presidential candidate Lissu returned to Tanzania after years in exile due to an assassination attempt and has become a prominent voice within the opposition.
In a further expression of discontent, Chadema’s Secretary-General John Mnyika urged President Hassan and the police to “stop illegal actions,” framing the police’s blockade and arrests as violations of political rights that disregard promised reforms.
