MWE Correspondent
The opposition party Chadema is weighing the possibility of shifting its ongoing sit-in protest from its Nyasa Zone offices in Mbeya to the regional police headquarters.
The move comes amid mounting fears that missing political activist Mdude Nyagali is being held there by security forces.
Nyagali, a known government critic, was allegedly abducted in the early hours of May 2 by unknown men who claimed to be police officers. According to his family, the individuals entered his home in Mbeya, physically assaulted him, and dragged him away. Since then, no official information has been released about his condition or location.
In protest, Chadema members launched a peaceful sit-in on May 3 outside their offices in the Kadege area of Mbeya City, seeking answers and accountability. The demonstration has since gained national attention, with supporters from across the country joining in and bringing food and supplies to sustain those camped out.
“We are deeply worried. After more than a week, there is still no clarity,” said Hamad Mbeyale, Chadema’s regional secretary in Mbeya. “If the silence continues, we are prepared to move our protest to the police station, where we strongly believe Nyagali may be detained.”
On May 10, the Mbeya regional police issued a statement confirming investigations are ongoing but warned against what they called “baseless accusations.”
Also Read; Mbeya Police Warn Against Threats Over Missing CHADEMA Activist
The statement followed allegations from Chadema leaders that specific police officers were involved in Nyagali’s disappearance. Authorities further warned that spreading false claims or inciting violence could result in prosecution.
The situation has drawn attention from human rights advocates and legal professionals. Boniface Mwabukusi, president of the Tanganyika Law Society, condemned the incident and urged the police to ensure transparency and humane treatment if Nyagali is indeed in their custody.
“We have held a special prayer service to place this matter in God’s hands,” said Mbeyale. “But we also await direction from our national leadership, including Deputy Secretary-General Amani Golugwa and legal professionals like Mwabukusi.”
The disappearance of Nyagali highlights growing fears around political repression in Tanzania. Analysts point to a broader trend of intimidation and abuse of opposition voices, raising questions about the country’s commitment to human rights and democratic norms.
