Joseph Isangura
Tanzania’s opposition party, ACT Wazalendo, has strongly condemned police actions that prevented Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA) from celebrating its founding anniversary on January 21, 2026, in Nkasi District, Rukwa Region.
The planned celebrations, which included community service initiatives such as tree planting and other socially beneficial activities, were blocked by law enforcement authorities, prompting accusations of unnecessary repression and political intimidation.
In a statement released on January 22, ACT Wazalendo criticized the ban, highlighting that such activities contribute to environmental conservation and public welfare. The party argued that preventing citizens and political organizations from carrying out initiatives designed to benefit the community undermines national development and discourages civic engagement.
The statement emphasized that CHADEMA is a legally registered political party under Tanzanian law, just like other opposition parties and the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi. While the party acknowledged that a court case is temporarily restricting CHADEMA from political activities, it stressed that the legal measures should not extend to non-political, community-oriented projects.
ACT Wazalendo described the police intervention as an act of oppression and intimidation that threatens democratic freedoms, civil liberties, and the role of opposition parties in Tanzania’s political landscape. According to the party, such acts exacerbate social divisions and undermine ongoing efforts to build unity, peace, and cohesion among Tanzanians.
The statement called on the Tanzanian government and law enforcement agencies to cease interfering with lawful, socially constructive activities organized by political parties. ACT Wazalendo stressed that during periods of political tension, particularly following the contested January 2026 elections, the government should focus on healing national divisions rather than deepening them.
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The party argued that restricting opposition initiatives not only suppresses democratic participation but also sends a negative signal to citizens and the international community about the state of governance in Tanzania.
ACT Wazalendo further reaffirmed its commitment to promoting justice, equality, and citizen rights. The party urged authorities to ensure that opposition parties can carry out lawful activities that support environmental conservation, civic responsibility, and community welfare. It condemned the police ban in the strongest terms and warned that continued interference could undermine public trust in state institutions and democratic processes.
The party concluded its statement by highlighting the importance of prioritizing the nation above partisan politics, stating: “Our message is clear—Tanzania comes first, today and tomorrow.” The statement was issued by the Deputy Secretary for Information, Communication, and Public Relations, representing ACT Wazalendo’s leadership.
Observers say the ban has sparked wider concerns over the treatment of opposition parties and their ability to engage in community service without political interference. Analysts note that such incidents raise questions about the state of democracy in Tanzania, the independence of law enforcement agencies, and the broader commitment to civil rights. The dispute also underscores tensions between the ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi and opposition movements, as well as the challenges of maintaining political pluralism in the country.
