MWE Correspondent
Police in Tanzania have launched an investigation into widespread online reports claiming that former legislator and diplomat Humphrey Polepole has been abducted, a case that has quickly sparked public concern and debate across the nation.
In a statement released on Monday, the Tanzania Police Force confirmed that it is examining the claims to establish their authenticity. Authorities said they are handling the matter with “utmost seriousness,” while cautioning citizens against spreading unverified information through social media platforms.
According to police headquarters in Dodoma, Mr. Polepole had been summoned to appear before the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to respond to allegations he made online concerning government operations. Officials stated that a formal summons was issued under the country’s legal framework, but that Polepole has not yet reported as directed.
“Mr. Humphrey Polepole was served with an official summons in accordance with the law to report to the DCI,” read part of the police statement. “However, he has not complied with the directive to date.”
The reports of his alleged disappearance have triggered widespread speculation, particularly given Polepole’s recent outspoken remarks critical of government decisions. Civil society organizations, including the Legal and Human Rights Centre, have urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a transparent investigation and to provide assurance regarding his safety.
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Political analysts say the incident comes at a tense moment in Tanzania’s political climate, as the country gears up for the next election cycle. The situation, they argue, reflects growing friction between authorities and independent political voices. “Even unverified reports of abduction can have a major impact on public confidence and political stability,” said one analyst based in Dar es Salaam.
Humphrey Polepole, 39, is a well-known public figure who previously served as an MP for the ruling party and later as Tanzania’s ambassador to Cuba. His career has been marked by both loyalty to his party and moments of public criticism of government policy. He resigned from his diplomatic post earlier this year after making a series of public statements urging greater accountability in governance.
While the police have not confirmed whether an abduction occurred, they have pledged to update the public as investigations continue. For now, the whereabouts of the former envoy remain uncertain — leaving citizens waiting anxiously for answers.
