Tanzania has recently drawn international attention after blocking several opposition officials from leaving the country.
The move is seen as part of a broader crackdown on dissent under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration.Prominent opposition figures, including members of the CHADEMA party (Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo), were prevented from boarding flights at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam.
Reports indicate that immigration authorities confiscated their passports without explanation. (CHADEMA Secretary-General) and other party officials were reportedly barred from traveling to Uganda for a meeting.
Some activists claim this is part of a pattern of harassment.Authorities have not provided clear reasons, but past actions suggest the government uses “national security” concerns to restrict opposition movements.
The ruling CCM party (Chama Cha Mapinduzi) has dominated Tanzanian politics for decades, and critics accuse it of stifling democracy.
President John Magufuli (2021), who was known for suppressing opposition voices, President Samia Suluhu Hassan initially promised reforms but has faced criticism for continuing restrictive policies.
Recent laws, including the Electronic and Postal Communications (Online Content) Regulations 2020, have been used to silence dissentHuman rights groups, including Amnesty International, have condemned the travel bans as an attack on political freedom.
The U.S. and EU have previously raised concerns about Tanzania’CHADEMA leaders accuse the government of violating constitutional rights and using state machinery to suppress opposition.
Calls for regional bodies like the East African Community (EAC) and African Union (AU) to intervene haveThe travel bans reflect ongoing tensions between Tanzania’s government and opposition, signaling a concerning trend of shrinking political freedoms.
Observers warn that without accountability, Tanzania risks further democratic erosion.
