A prominent Catholic priest in Tanzania, Fr Charles Kitima, known for his vocal criticism of the government, was violently attacked in Dar es Salaam, raising fresh concerns over political repression ahead of the country’s general elections scheduled for October. Fr Kitima, who serves as the secretary-general of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), was ambushed by two unidentified individuals after attending an all-day religious meeting.
The attack occurred at night in a canteen restroom near his residence, where he was struck on the head with a blunt object. Police reports confirm that Fr Kitima was hospitalized and is now in stable condition. Eyewitnesses stated that he was seen speaking with several people before being found bleeding and calling for help shortly after the assailants were seen fleeing the scene. One suspect has been detained, and investigations are ongoing to identify additional individuals involved.
The incident has triggered national condemnation. Legal and civic organizations, religious leaders, and political figures have denounced the assault, calling it an attack not only on a religious figure but also on justice, democracy, and freedom of expression in Tanzania. Boniface Mwabukusi, president of the Tanganyika Law Society, described it as a “brutal attack with the intent to take his life” and shared Fr Kitima’s message urging Tanzanians not to fear the cost of standing up for justice.
Fr Kitima has been widely recognized for his outspoken calls for democratic reforms, transparency, and respect for human rights. His attack follows a recent appeal from the Catholic Church urging the government to implement electoral reforms a demand echoed by opposition parties and civil society organizations.
As political tension builds in Tanzania, human rights groups are increasingly alarmed by the shrinking civic space and escalating violence against critics of the ruling government. The opposition party Chadema’s vice-chairman, John Heche, called the attack disturbing and harmful to the country’s democratic image. At the same time, the Legal and Human Rights Centre condemned it as “heinous” and damaging to Tanzania’s reputation.
Church leaders, who represent a significant portion of Tanzania’s Christian population, have been more vocal about governance and justice issues in recent years. However, this has drawn criticism from some ruling party supporters, with government allies warning religious figures to stay out of politics.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, in a recent address, emphasized that “no one is above the law” and warned against election-related conflict. She promised that the upcoming polls would be free and fair. Nonetheless, the attack on Fr Kitima, combined with a rising number of incidents involving abductions and arrests of government critics, has cast doubt on the government’s commitment to democratic integrity.
Opposition leaders like Tundu Lissu have faced treason charges and crackdowns, and now, with religious figures being targeted, fears are mounting over the safety of those who speak out. While the motive for the attack on Fr Kitima has not been officially established, the broader context suggests an alarming trend of silencing dissent.
The government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the assault. However, Stephen Wasira, vice-chairman of the ruling CCM party, publicly condemned the attack and expressed sympathy for the injured priest.
The incident has intensified calls for accountability, protection of civil liberties, and a peaceful, transparent electoral process in Tanzania.
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