Joseph Isangura
The brutal killing of opposition politician Mohamed Ali Kibao has triggered widespread condemnation across Tanzania, with leaders and citizens alike expressing shock and calling for swift justice.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan publicly addressed the nation, voicing her deep sorrow over the tragic murder of the Democratic Change Party (DCP) leader. “It is with great sadness that I have received the news of Mohamed Ali Kibao’s death,” President Hassan stated on X (formerly Twitter). “I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. I have instructed the authorities to carry out an immediate investigation into this heinous act and provide a detailed report.”
Kibao, a senior member of the Democratic Change Party’s Secretariat, went missing on the night of September 6, 2024, during a journey from Dar es Salaam to Tanga. According to party officials, Kibao was forcibly removed from a Tashrif bus by unknown assailants. The bus had been en route from Dar es Salaam when the attackers intercepted it, abducting the political leader.
The grim discovery of his body at Mwananyamala Hospital in Dar es Salaam on September 8 has sent shockwaves throughout the country. Chadema Secretary-General John Mnyika emphasized that Kibao’s abduction and subsequent death mark a serious threat to political freedoms in the nation. “We urge law enforcement to treat this case with urgency. This is not just about one individual, but about ensuring the safety and protection of all political figures in Tanzania.”
Following the incident, Freeman Mbowe, the party’s national chairman, along with other leaders, visited the hospital to confirm the identity of the body and gather more details. The police have launched a full-scale investigation, with Tanzanian authorities vowing to bring those responsible to justice. However, no official suspects have been named at this stage.
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The incident has raised concerns about the growing risks faced by opposition figures in the country. Many have called for heightened security measures and protection for individuals engaged in political activities. Kibao’s untimely death is seen as a test for Tanzania’s commitment to democracy and the protection of fundamental rights.
The Democratic Change Party and other political organizations have scheduled protests and vigils in honor of Kibao, demanding transparency in the investigation process. The party insists that justice must be swift and thorough to prevent further violence.
The government, through President Hassan, reaffirmed its stance against any form of political violence, stating that every citizen has the right to life, freedom of expression, and political participation. “This government will not tolerate such acts of brutality. Our democracy must remain intact, and we are committed to upholding the rights of every Tanzanian,” the president reiterated.
