IPC calls on SADC to condemn political repression in Tanzania

By: Josia Shigwedha

Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) has called on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to speak up against what it terms as ‘systematic repression’ of political opposition in Tanzania.

In a media statement issued by the party’s national spokesperson, Imms Nashinge urged the SADC organ on politics,defence, and security to break their silence, and publicly condemn the actions of the Tanzania government, and dispatch a high-level delegation to demand the immediate restoration of democratic norms.

Nashinge said under president Samia Suluhu Hassan, Tanzania has witnessed repressive tactics, including the arrest of opposition leader Tundu Lissu on treason charges and banning of the main opposition party Chadema, from participating in the elections.

“This inaction is not neutrality; it is endorsement. It transforms SADC from a guardian of democratic integrity into a complicit bystander, eroding its own credibility and betraying the hopes of Southern Africans who still look to the body as a beacon of stability and principle. As peace loving people of SADC, we must all condemn the ongoing barbaric tyranny and undemocratic acts with all the condemnation it deserves,” remarks Nashinge.

Nashinge further said IPC demands immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners and reinstatment of Chadema’s right to participate in the political process, and implementation of meaningful electoral reform to ensure a level playing field.

Lastly, IPC called on the Namibian government and SADC member states to use their voices to hold Tanzania accountable.

Meanwhile, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has urged for a peaceful resolution, emphasising the need to uphold democracy, sovereignty, and the rule of law.

Despite rising concerns over Tanzania’s political environment, Zambian and Zimbabwean Heads of Statse have confirmed their attendance at Hassan’s inauguration expected to take place on Monday following her re-election with nearly 80% of the vote announced last Friday.