US, Rostam Aziz demand action as slain opposition politician is laid to rest

Dar es Salaam. As the nation mourns the death of Chadema leader Ali Mohamed Kibao, both the United States and Tanzanian business tycoon Rostam Aziz have issued strong statements demanding immediate action against the recent wave of abductions and violence.

The United States has called for an independent, transparent and swift investigation into the ongoing cases of abductions and the murder of Kibao.

In a statement released on September 9, 2024, the US Embassy in Dar es Salaam emphasized that "murder and disappearances, as well as last month’s detentions, beatings and other efforts to disenfranchise citizens ahead of elections, should have no place in a democracy."

The statement also expressed condolences to Kibao’s family and the nation, highlighting that these brutal acts undermine rights guaranteed by the Tanzanian Constitution.

In a separate statement, Tanzanian billionaire businessman and CCM cadre Rostam Aziz condemned the recent surge in violence, which includes abductions, torture, and the tragic murder of Kibao.

Aziz voiced his deep sympathy for the bereaved family and the Chadema community, stating, “I join all Tanzanians in extending condolences to the family, relatives, friends, and Chadema leaders and members for this deeply saddening loss.”

Aziz also praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s response to the crisis.

He noted that her strong message affirmed Tanzania's commitment to democratic values and human rights. “The President has issued a strong message, saying: ‘Our country is a democratic and every citizen has the right to live.

The government I lead will not tolerate such brutal acts,’” Aziz quoted.

Aziz called on Tanzanians to unite against the return of oppressive practices, urging the public to support President Hassan’s efforts in combating brutality.

“As a Tanzanian citizen who has served our country in various leadership roles and who was raised in a nation that values human dignity and the worth of our humanity under the principles of freedom and justice, I urge my fellow Tanzanians to unite and reject a return to the dark ages where human dignity and lives seemed worthless,” he said.

He reaffirmed his support for President Hassan, praising her for her commitment to human rights and justice.

Aziz urged the nation to stand together to restore and uphold the foundational values of humanity, freedom, and justice as envisioned by the country’s founders.