MWE Correspondent
Former Tanzanian minister Geofrey Mwambe has spent several days in police custody following his arrest on the night of December 7, 2025, an incident that has stirred public debate and raised questions over police conduct.
Authorities from the Dar es Salaam Special Police Region confirmed that Mwambe was apprehended in the Tegeta area during what they described as a routine security operation. According to the statement, he is being held over allegations related to criminal offences, though investigators have not yet disclosed the nature of the claims.
Mwambe, a prominent national figure, previously served in multiple government roles — including Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for investment, Minister of Industry and Trade, and Director of the Tanzania Investment Centre — before later representing Masasi constituency in Parliament. His political background and visibility have contributed to rising public curiosity about the reasons behind his extended detention.
On December 11, 2025, his legal team filed an urgent petition before the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court, naming the Inspector General of Police, the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Zonal Crime Officer as respondents.
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The petition argues that Mwambe’s ongoing detention violates constitutional protections, particularly the requirement for suspects to be brought before a court within 24 hours of arrest.
The case emerges at a time when Tanzania is still navigating heightened political and social tensions following the 2025 Tanzanian election protests. Analysts note that public scrutiny of law enforcement has intensified in recent months, with civil society organisations raising concerns about due process and accountability.
Observers also link the situation to growing unease surrounding broader post-election tensions, which have remained visible across parts of the country since the conclusion of the electoral cycle. Advocacy groups warn that cases such as Mwambe’s risk deepening mistrust unless investigations are handled transparently.
