TANZANIA – Human rights organisations are calling for the immediate release of 5,000 people allegedly unlawfully detained in Tanzania.
The groups describe the detentions as part of a broader crackdown that violates civil liberties and political freedoms.
In a statement, the defenders said most of those held are critics of the government, including opposition supporters, activists, and journalists. They argued that the mass arrests lack a proper legal basis and demand due process and transparency from Tanzanian authorities.
The crackdown comes amid rising tensions in Tanzania following recent elections and protests. Critics accuse President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration of using security forces to suppress dissent, especially targeting political opponents.
International rights watchdogs — including Amnesty International — have previously called for the release of detained opposition figures, noting that some are being held without charge and have limited access to legal representation.
These demands underscore growing concerns about the erosion of democratic norms in Tanzania and the need for urgent corrective measures.
