MWE Correspondent
The political tension in Tanzania has deepened following the detention of John Heche, the Deputy National Chairperson of the Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), who is currently being held at the Mtumba Police Station in Dodoma.
According to party officials, Heche was arrested and taken into custody after being accused by the Immigration Services Department of crossing the border into Kenya without following the official immigration procedures. The department reportedly interrogated him earlier today, alleging that he had violated border regulations — a claim the opposition strongly disputes.
CHADEMA spokespersons have expressed concern that Heche’s detention is politically motivated, arguing that the incident reflects a worrying trend of restricting opposition leaders’ movements, especially as the country heads toward the next general elections. They added that Heche was denied bail and has yet to be officially charged in court.
In a short video shared by CHADEMA on social media, Heche said he was not told the reason for his detention, nor was he shown any legal warrant or court document. “I asked if there was a case number or any letter from the court, but there was nothing,” he said calmly, surrounded by officers.
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Sources close to the opposition leader indicated that Heche had initially planned to travel to neighboring Kenya to attend the funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, but was reportedly intercepted at the Sirari–Isebania border post. The Immigration Department later claimed that he had “entered Kenya without valid authorization.”
The incident sparked public reactions across both sides of the border. Several Kenyans and Tanzanians were seen gathering at the border point demanding clarification from immigration officials, as videos circulating online showed crowds chanting for Heche’s release.
Observers have described the situation as a test for Tanzania’s commitment to political freedom and human rights. Political analysts note that opposition leaders in Tanzania have long faced administrative and legal hurdles that critics say are intended to limit dissent.
So far, government authorities have not issued a detailed statement regarding the arrest. However, CHADEMA insists that the detention is unlawful and has called on the authorities to release Heche immediately and respect his right to free movement.
Heche, known for his outspoken defense of democracy and youth participation in politics, has been a key figure within CHADEMA and one of the rising voices of opposition leadership in Tanzania.
