The sudden disappearance of former Tanzanian ambassador and outspoken government critic, Humphrey Polepole, has cast a dark shadow over Tanzania’s political landscape. Taken from his home in Dar es Salaam by unknown men late Thursday night, his whereabouts remain a mystery — and his abduction has sent ripples of fear across the country.
Human rights groups, led by the Southern Africa Litigation Centre (SALC), have condemned the incident, calling it part of a disturbing pattern of repression as the nation inches closer to its 2025 general elections. “When critics disappear and citizens live in fear, democracy itself disappears,” said Melusi Simelane of SALC, capturing the mood of growing anxiety among activists and opposition figures.
Polepole’s abduction is particularly chilling given his history. Once Tanzania’s ambassador to Cuba, he fell out with the ruling elite and became one of the government’s fiercest critics. His disappearance, observers say, is a warning shot to anyone daring to speak truth to power ahead of the October polls.
Over the past year, the civic space in Tanzania has narrowed drastically. Media outlets have been silenced, opposition leaders harassed, and activists detained — all under the guise of maintaining order. The main opposition party, CHADEMA, led by Tundu Lissu, continues to face legal blockades that make their participation in the election increasingly difficult.
SALC has demanded an independent probe into Polepole’s disappearance and called on Tanzanian authorities to restore citizens’ confidence in the rule of law. They are urging international observers — including SADC, the African Union, and COMESA — to ensure that the upcoming elections meet democratic standards.
As of now, the Tanzanian government has maintained silence, a silence that speaks volumes. For many, it feels like democracy in Tanzania is not just under threat — it’s vanishing before their eyes.
