Joseph Isangura
Police in Singida Region have detained a prison officer following a violent clash between supporters of Tanzania’s ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party and the opposition Chadema party.
The altercation, which took place late on November 26, 2024, resulted in the death of George Juma, 41, a Chadema candidate for Stendi Ward, after he was struck by a stray bullet.
According to Singida Regional Police Commander Amon Kakwale, the violence erupted in the Stendi neighborhood, Manyoni District, during an internal CCM meeting held in a private residence. The confrontation escalated when Chadema supporters allegedly ambushed the gathering. The conflict occurred near a local prison, prompting officers to intervene.
Commander Kakwale reported that prison officers responding to the disturbance were attacked with stones, leading them to fire warning shots to disperse the crowd. Tragically, one of these shots hit Juma, who later succumbed to his injuries at a local medical facility.
The incident has heightened tensions between the political parties, with Chadema leaders accusing the authorities of bias in handling political disputes.
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Regional police have launched an investigation to establish responsibility for the violence and to apprehend those involved in the ambush.
This marks the latest in a series of politically charged incidents in Tanzania, where tensions between CCM and Chadema remain high. Earlier this year, President Samia Suluhu Hassan lifted a ban on opposition political activities, signaling efforts to ease restrictions. However, opposition leaders argue that acts of repression persist.
Observers have called for impartial investigations to prevent further escalation and to ensure justice for Juma’s death. Political analysts suggest that the incident underscores the need for stronger mechanisms to promote dialogue and peaceful political expression across Tanzania.
