Freeman Mbowe released on bail: Tanzania in electoral turmoil

Forceful arrest and release on bail

On November 22, 2024, Tanzania witnessed a controversial arrest. Freeman Mbowe, the chairman of the main opposition party, Chadema, was arrested along with several of his colleagues at a political rally. Police, citing a violation of the campaign schedule, dispersed the crowd with tear gas. Mbowe and his companions were accused of violating election rules by holding an unauthorized rally.

After spending a night in detention, Mbowe was released on bail on November 23. Speaking to the media, he denounced a deliberate move aimed at disrupting Chadema's activities ahead of local elections scheduled for November 27. He also noted that several members of his party remained in detention, calling the actions an attempt at political sabotage.

A political climate under tension

These developments come at a time when Chadema accuses the authorities of unfairly disqualifying several of its candidates, thereby weakening the opposition. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, initially hailed for her promises of democratic reforms, now faces growing criticism over a return to repressive practices.

Repeated arrests of opposition figures, including Mbowe and Tundu Lissu, and the violent dispersal of political rallies have fuelled concerns about the state of democracy in Tanzania. International observers and human rights groups are calling for restraint and respect for fundamental rights ahead of local and national elections.

Towards an election under high surveillance

The local elections on 27 November are seen as a major test ahead of the 2025 general elections. The current climate suggests significant challenges for the opposition, which faces institutional obstacles and increased repression. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, hoping that the electoral process will be free and fair.

Freeman Mbowe’s release on bail does not mark the end of political tensions in Tanzania. On the contrary, it highlights the country’s ongoing challenges to democracy and respect for opposition rights. With elections just days away, Tanzania’s political future remains uncertain, and the authorities’ actions will be closely scrutinized by domestic and international observers.