Tanzania Police Block Opposition Leaders Ahead of Protests

In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, police have blocked access to the homes of opposition leaders Freeman Mbowe and Tundu Lissu from the CHADEMA party ahead of protests against alleged political killings and abductions, which authorities deemed illegal. Despite improvements in human rights under President Samia Suluhu Hassan since 2021, reports of police brutality against government critics have reportedly intensified, particularly with local elections approaching in December and national elections in 2025. Recently, a senior CHADEMA member was abducted and found dead, heightening tensions. Both Mbowe and Lissu have faced prior arrests aimed at preventing their participation in political events. Lissu reported police presence outside his home, where he was informed he would be taken to the Regional Crimes Officer. The police chief justified the actions as necessary to maintain public order.