Arson attack targets home of Tanzania’s ruling party official in Mbeya
What you need to know:
- The blaze, which broke out shortly after 4am, threatened to spread to nearby houses.
Mbeya. Tension has gripped a neighbourhood in Mbeya following a suspected arson attack at the residence of a senior official of Tanzania’s ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, April 23, when unidentified individuals reportedly broke into the home of CCM’s Mbeya Urban Publicity Secretary, Mr Philimon Mng’ong’o, and set his vehicle on fire.
The blaze, which broke out shortly after 4am, threatened to spread to nearby houses. Eleven people who were inside the residence at the time escaped unhurt.
In an interview at his home, Mr Mng’ong’o said that just a week earlier, unknown persons had stolen a tyre from the same Nissan X-Trail vehicle (registration number T566 CXL), which had been parked temporarily.
“Although this incident is both shocking and distressing, I am not inclined to link it to politics. I have no personal disputes with anyone, whether within or outside the party,” he said. “It may be tied to economic grievances, but I leave the matter to the security organs to investigate thoroughly.”
He recounted how the fire was first noticed by his wife, who had woken up for early morning prayers.
“She heard a strange noise and went to check. We saw the fire, along with a container of petrol. Flames had already begun to spread towards neighbouring houses. We attempted to call the fire brigade, but they couldn’t be reached in time. We managed to extinguish the fire using sand,” he said.
Local leaders have condemned the attack. A local government official in Isanga Kati, Mr Bakari Yusuph, described the incident as deeply concerning and called for an emergency meeting to address growing security concerns.
“This is the first time such an incident has occurred in our area. It has shocked the entire community. We are planning an urgent meeting at both street and ward levels to assess the situation and identify necessary actions,” he said.
“We are also appealing to the Police and other security agencies to fast-track investigations and ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
One of the tenants in the affected house, Ms Diana Yusuph, said the incident nearly claimed lives.
“We thank God we survived. Otherwise, this could have been a day of mourning. The government must take firm action to prevent such acts,” she said.
Reacting to the incident, CCM’s Regional Secretary for Ideology and Publicity in Mbeya, Mr Christopher Uhagile, said the party was disturbed by the attack.
“We have not received any report suggesting our official is involved in any dispute, either internally or externally. We are taking time to reflect and hope to get the full picture soon,” he said.
Mbeya Regional Police Commander, SACP Benjamin Kuzaga, confirmed the incident when contacted by phone. He said investigations were underway.
“I am aware of the incident, and our Regional Crime Officer is already at the scene. I am currently in Kyela but will provide further details upon my return,” he said.
