Tundu Lissu, other Tanzanian opposition leaders arrested ahead of youth rally

Tanzanian authorities have detained prominent members of the opposition party Chadema, including Tundu Lissu and several other party leaders.

The arrests took place in Mbeya, a city in southwest Tanzania, where Chadema had planned a rally in celebration of International Youth Day.

The arrest was confirmed by Chadema's director of communications and foreign affairs, John Mrema, in a statement posted on X.

The rally, organised by Chadema's youth wing, was expected to draw around 10,000 young people under the theme "Take charge of your future." However, on Sunday, police announced the prohibition of the event, accusing the party of intending to incite violent protests.

Police Chief Awadh Haji in a statement on Sunday, said the ban was based on evidence suggesting the gathering was intended to cause unrest, referring to recent anti-government demonstrations in neighbouring Kenya as a possible influence.

Haji warned that such gatherings could lead to a breach of peace.

"Police have decided to ban any form of internal and public gathering or demonstrations which go under the name of marking the youth day," he said.

Condemnation

The ban and subsequent arrests have drawn sharp reactions from Chadema's leadership.

Freeman Mbowe, Chadema's leader, who had earlier condemned the arrests and called for the immediate and unconditional release of the detained leaders, members, and supporters was also arrested.

The International Youth Day rally in Mbeya was intended as a platform for young people to discuss and take action on issues affecting their future. The event's cancellation and the arrests of key opposition figures have heightened concerns about political freedoms in the country.