Tanzania slams Human Rights Watch report as “false and misleading” ahead of 2025 elections
Tanzania reaffirmed its "unyielding commitment to protecting and promoting human rights" as enshrined in its Constitution and international treaties.
Tanzania has sharply criticised a new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW), calling it "erroneous, misleading, and unfounded," in a strongly worded government statement.
The Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports said the HRW publication contained "false allegations against Tanzania without allowing the government to respond before its release."
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"It is regrettable that an institution of international repute like Human Rights Watch would publish unfounded claims clearly intended to tarnish the image of our country at the international level," the statement read.
The government insisted that no communication had been made through "letter, phone call, or email" seeking official comment before publication — contradicting HRW's claim that Tanzanian authorities were consulted.
Tanzania reaffirmed its "unyielding commitment to protecting and promoting human rights" as enshrined in its Constitution and international treaties.
The statement further cited the Presidential, Parliamentary and Councillors' Election Act No.1 of 2024 as evidence of efforts to ensure a level playing field in next year's elections.
Concerns raised by HRW over "diminishing civic space, political restrictions, and abductions" were dismissed as "unfounded and misleading."
The government argued that the "right to life, liberty, and safety is guaranteed by the constitution," and that it continues to uphold "good governance and the rule of law" ahead of the 2025 polls.
Gerson Msigwa, the Permanent Secretary and Chief Government Spokesperson, emphasised that Tanzania remains open to "engage with institutions seeking accurate information," urging organisations to verify claims before publication to avoid "misinformation that may undermine the country's reputation internationally."
The HRW report, released ahead of Tanzania's 2025 General Election, alleged growing restrictions on civic space and opposition activity — claims the government insists are part of a broader effort to discredit the country's democratic process.
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