CCM calls for patience after Chadema’s abductions, killings ultimatum

Dar es Salaam. The ruling party, CCM, has echoed President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s call to expedite investigations to address the recent spate of abductions and killings that has triggered political uncertainty in Tanzania.

The abductions and killings climax saw the recovery of the body of the opposition party’s member of the secretariat, Ally Mohamed Kibao, after being abducted a day before.

The opposition Chadema’s cadre was reported missing on the evening of Friday, September 6, 2024, as he was travelling to Tanga from Dar es Salaam on a Tashrif bus when unknown individuals forcibly removed him from the vehicle.

The incident prompted strong condemnation from political stakeholders, diplomats, clergymen, and Tanzanians from other walks of life demanding the government’s action to end the wave, painting a bad image of the country considered the heaven of peace.

Being among Tanzanians saddened by the incident, President Samia Suluhu, Hassan expressed deep sorrow over the killing and used her X (formerly Twitter) page to extend her condolences to Chadema, the deceased’s family, relatives, and friends.

In her message, President Hassan directed investigative authorities to provide a detailed report on this tragic incident and similar cases as soon as possible.

She affirmed that Tanzania is a democratic nation where every citizen has the right to live, and her government will not tolerate such brutal acts.

But, after the burial that took place at his home region of Tanga, Chadema leaders held a press conference at the party’s headquarters and issued a 10-day ultimatum to the government to provide details of some missing party cadres and members.

Chadema has been naming three cadres who recently went missing after reporting the Temeke Police Station to collect their motorcycle that was stolen.

They include the party’s Temeke district secretary, Mr Jacob Mlay; the youth wing (Bavicha) district chairman, Mr Deusdedit Soka; and another member who doubles as a bodaboda taxi operator, Frank Mbise.

Following the new development, the CCM secretary general, Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, told editors from different media outlets in the country on Friday, September 13, 2924, that there was a need for patience, calmness, and an informed response instead of issuing ultimatums.

“These acts could come from various groups, including the opposition, the police, or even CCM, therefore requiring a thorough investigation to unveil perpetrators and bring them to justice,” he said.

Dr Nchimbi criticised the ultimatum issued by Chadema’s chairman, Mr Freeman Mbowe, to the president, saying he was surprised that the opposition party was being taken by the divisive agenda, therefore pleasing those behind the incidents.

He used a U.S. incident as an example of avoiding "divisive blame" and reminded critics of the constitutional legitimacy of President Samia's leadership.

“The abduction and killing of Tanzanians are acts of sabotage against the government and the ruling party,” said Dr Nchimbi, denouncing those behind the incidents.

He insisted that CCM share President Hassan’s stance on the urgency of probing the crimes and taking stern measures against the perpetrators.

The CCM executive said the ruling party's priority remains on the nation’s safety and stability, saying it is strongly committed to upholding provisions of the constitution and ensuring public trust.

Dr Nchimbi urged a unified approach to address security challenges rather than engaging in blame-shifting or political posturing.

Responding to the calls for foreign investigators, the former Home Affairs Minister affirmed CCM's stance that investigations should be led by the government.

He promised that CCM would provide external assistance if deemed necessary to uncover the full extent of the criminal network involved.

Regarding reconciliation with opposition parties, the ruling party’s leader disclosed the presence of informal discussions with Chadema and ACT-Wazalendo.

He emphasised the importance of trusting in the process of dialogue, hinting that he was optimistic that the discussions would soon turn formal.

According to him, CCM remains steadfast in its commitment to resolving the crisis and ensuring the safety of Tanzanians.