The Dark Clouds Hovering Over Tanzania
DAR ES SALAAM — The recent wave of abductions, arrests, and the brutal killing of an opposition official in Tanzania seems to be dimming the ray of political hope that came with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s rise to power in 2021.
Fading Hope of Political Freedom
There was huge relief when Samia — Tanzania’s first female president — took office, with opposition parties allowed to organize rallies and criticize the government without the fear of grave repercussions.
Sliding Back to Autocracy
But concern is growing that Tanzania is sliding back to the era of her autocratic predecessor, John Magufuli.
Repression and Violence
In the span of weeks, two of the most senior opposition leaders have been arrested twice, and another opposition official, Ali Kibao, was abducted, killed, and his body doused in acid by unknown assailants.
Outcry of Concern
“The political situation in Tanzania is worrisome in the extreme,” said the deputy leader of the main opposition Chadema party, Tundu Lissu.
Wave of Repression Returns
“We’re beginning to see the kind of wave of repression and state-orchestrated violence which was characteristic of the period from 2016 to 2020 [during the Magufuli administration],” Lissu told the BBC.
Denial and Allegations
The police have denied involvement, while the ruling CCM party’s secretary-general, Emmanuel Nchimbi declined to speak to the BBC.
Crackdown Staining the Presidency
There is no doubt that the crackdown has sullied the image of the president.
Call for Reform
Rights groups and western diplomats have called for an immediate end to “arbitrary detention” and have demanded “independent and transparent investigations”.
A President’s Dilemma
Samia had indicated that she was “very open to dialogue” and, from her perspective, Chadema had “shut the doors to negotiation” and had resorted to protest action, Mr Kibwana said.
Challenges Ahead
The elections will be her first real test. She was Magufuli’s deputy, and inherited the presidency following his sudden death during the coronavirus pandemic.
Hope Amid Uncertainty
Semu added that as elections approach, “we are hopeful, but we are not assured everything is going to be OK”.
Call for Reform
Lawyer and activist Fatma Karume told the BBC that genuine reform hinged on overhauling the country’s laws so that the president has less power.
“Exploring the Enchanting City of Paris: A Traveler’s Guide”
Paris, the city of love and lights, is a dream destination for travelers around the world. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the charming streets of Montmartre, there is no shortage of beauty and culture to discover in this enchanting city.
Heading to the Eiffel Tower, visitors are greeted with stunning views of the cityscape and the Seine River. The intricate ironwork of the tower shines in the sunlight, creating a picturesque backdrop for photos and memories that will last a lifetime.
Venturing into the historic neighborhood of Montmartre, travelers are transported back in time to the bohemian era of artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. The cobblestone streets are lined with quaint cafes and art galleries, offering a glimpse into the artistic heart of Paris.
As night falls, the city comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. From trendy rooftop bars to cozy wine bars, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the City of Light.
Whether you’re exploring the Louvre Museum, strolling along the Champs-Élysées, or simply enjoying a croissant at a sidewalk cafe, Paris is a city that will capture your heart and leave you longing for more. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to experience the magic of Paris firsthand.
