Joseph Isangura
The Kilimanjaro Regional Police have detained Gervas Eliewaha Mgonja, Chairperson of the opposition Chadema party for the Kilimanjaro region, over allegations of incitement tied to local government elections scheduled for November 27, 2024.
Kilimanjaro Regional Police Commander Simon Maigwa stated that Mgonja, 42, was apprehended after a video circulated on social media in which he reportedly urged residents to attack election supervisors. The remarks, allegedly made on November 24, were flagged as promoting unlawful conduct.
Police allege that Mgonja called for “violent resistance” during a public gathering, prompting his detention on November 25. Authorities are investigating the context and potential influence of the video, and Mgonja may face formal charges under Tanzania’s laws regulating public order and political speech.
“The suspect made statements intended to incite citizens against government officials. Such actions disrupt peace and cannot be tolerated,” said Maigwa. Legal procedures are underway, and further action will follow based on the investigation’s findings.
The arrest occurs amidst heightened tensions over opposition participation in the 2024 local government elections. Opposition leaders, including those in Chadema, have criticized what they describe as restrictive measures, including candidate disqualifications and alleged bias in election administration. Party officials have called for fairness while reiterating their commitment to peaceful political engagement.
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This incident highlights the challenges opposition parties face in Tanzania’s political landscape, particularly during electoral periods. Mgonja’s arrest has sparked debate on balancing free speech and maintaining public order during contentious political campaigns
The Tanzanian government emphasizes that such arrests aim to uphold rule of law and election integrity. However, critics argue that these measures may stifle political dissent, raising concerns about the broader state of democracy in the country.
