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Police arrested John Heche, deputy chairperson of Tanzania’s main opposition Chadema party, outside the High Court in Dar es Salaam. He had gone to attend the treason trial of party leader Tundu Lissu. Chadema said officers later took him to Tarime in northern Tanzania without giving reasons. The arrest, his second in a week, occurred amid growing pressure on opposition figures before the October 29 polls.
Amnesty International reported that Tanzanian authorities intensified repression ahead of the elections, targeting opposition leaders, journalists, and activists. The group documented enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and politically motivated arrests. It urged authorities to investigate reported abuses, release those detained for political reasons, and uphold civil rights. The Tanzanian government did not respond to Amnesty’s request for comment.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has launched its Election Observation Mission in Tanzania ahead of the 29 October polls. Former Malawi Speaker Richard Msowoya leads the mission. Observers will review the election’s compliance with Tanzanian laws and SADC’s 2021 democratic principles. Eighty observers from ten member states will monitor voting across 27 regions, focusing on fairness, transparency, and peaceful participation.
The prosecution in Tundu Lissu’s treason trial defended the admissibility of video evidence challenged by the CHADEMA chairperson. State Attorney Nassor Katuga argued the videos were played and read aloud in the Kisutu Committal Court, citing court records. Lissu accused prosecutors of legal misconduct. The three-judge panel postponed its ruling on the objection, with a decision expected on Wednesday. The Republic has also asked the High Court in Dar es Salaam to dismiss Lissu’s objection.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to improving teacher welfare by addressing salary adjustments, promotions, and various claims. Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa and Dodoma Regional Commissioner Rosemary Senyamule highlighted efforts during recent events in Geita and Dodoma. Over 7,500 teachers were promoted in 2024/25, and training programs are being expanded. Officials urged improvements in human resource systems and equitable teacher distribution across schools nationwide.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Mwinyi for the transparent use of $567.25 million in COVID-19 relief funds. At an event in Zanzibar, officials highlighted reforms that boosted revenue, improved service delivery, and strengthened fiscal systems. President Mwinyi cited 7.2% economic growth and the launch of the Zanzibar Sukuk and Sharia-compliant social programs as key milestones in building an inclusive, accountable economy.
