Tanzanian Police Arrest Opposition Leaders Before Rally

Tanzanian police have arrested key opposition figures from the Chadema party, including vice-chair Tundu Lissu and secretary general John Mnyika, alongside hundreds of supporters, in a crackdown on a planned rally in Mbeya. The rally, meant to celebrate International Youth Day with about 10,000 attendees, was banned by police citing potential violence. Chadema leaders, including Freeman Mbowe, have condemned the arrests and demanded the immediate release of all detained individuals, asserting that the event was peaceful. The crackdown has drawn criticism from opposition politicians who argue that it reflects a regression in democratic progress under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, despite her initial reforms after succeeding John Magufuli. Amid increasing protests in the region, the opposition has been vocal about issues such as controversial bills, high living costs, and the need for electoral oversight. This incident occurs as the country prepares for presidential and parliamentary elections in 2025.