Tanzania has appealed to the European Parliament to review its decision to freeze development aid worth 156 million euros (about Ksh.23.3 billion), following concerns raised in Brussels over last month’s disputed general election.
Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Kombo on Friday urged EU lawmakers to take Tanzania’s perspective into account before implementing the funding suspension, saying the country remains committed to strengthening diplomatic relations and addressing any misunderstandings.
The European Parliament on Thursday passed a resolution recommending the halt of the 2025 action plan funds, citing alleged human rights violations and unrest surrounding the October 29 election.
During the debate, several members of parliament pushed for firm action. “All EU funds must be stopped immediately. All political prisoners must be released immediately,” said MEP David McAllister.
The vote has sparked widespread concern in Tanzania, where the government argues that some of the claims informing the decision are misleading and paint an inaccurate picture of the political situation.
Officials warn that the aid freeze would have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only government programmes but also private sector activities, international organizations and, ultimately, the citizens meant to benefit from the planned projects.
Kombo, who met members of the diplomatic corps in Dar es Salaam, said Tanzania is carefully monitoring developments in the EU.
The country’s ambassador in Brussels has been directed to intensify consultations with EU institutions and other partners in an effort to safeguard ongoing cooperation and clarify the government’s position.
Despite the potential impact of the aid suspension, Tanzania maintains that diplomatic engagement remains its preferred path.
Authorities say their priority is to protect citizens’ interests while preserving longstanding ties with the European Union, even as discussions continue over the disputed election and its aftermath.
Source: Citizen Digital
Written By Rodney Mbua
