Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has strongly condemned the brutal murder of Mohamed Ali Kibao, a senior figure in the opposition party Chadema. Kibao, 69, was abducted from a bus while traveling from Dar es Salaam to his hometown of Tanga. He was later found beaten and with acid poured on his face, as confirmed by a post-mortem examination reported by Chadema’s chairman, Freeman Mbowe.
The violent killing has sparked concerns among opposition members and human rights organizations about a potential crackdown on political dissent. In response, President Samia has called for a comprehensive investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need for prompt and detailed information from the investigating agencies. She reiterated her commitment to upholding democracy and protecting citizens’ rights.
During Kibao’s funeral in Tanga, mourners protested against Home Affairs Minister Hamad Masauni, demanding his resignation over perceived government inaction. The crowd expressed their frustration with the government’s handling of abductions and murders. However, Mbowe intervened to allow Masauni to complete his address.
The US Embassy in Tanzania has also called for an independent and transparent investigation into Kibao’s death, expressing concern for the safety of Chadema leaders. The embassy underscored that such violent acts are unacceptable in a democratic society.
Kibao, a retired military intelligence officer who joined Chadema in 2008, is the latest victim in a series of troubling incidents involving opposition figures. Last month, senior Chadema leaders Mbowe and Tundu Lissu were arrested during a rally that had been banned by the police. Additionally, in July, an artist was sentenced to two years in prison for burning an image of President Samia.
There are growing fears that Tanzania may be reverting to a repressive environment similar to that of late President John Magufuli’s era, despite President Samia’s promises to restore competitive politics. Human Rights Watch has criticized the recent increase in arrests of opposition activists, describing it as a troubling sign ahead of the 2025 presidential elections.
