The family of former Tanzanian ambassador and outspoken government critic, Humphrey Polepole, has alleged that he was abducted by unidentified individuals in the early hours of Monday at his residence in Dar es Salaam. According to his younger brother, Godfrey Polepole, the family discovered clear signs of violence at the scene, including a broken door, cut electric wires, and a large pool of blood. The disturbing discovery has sparked widespread concern across Tanzania and beyond, with videos of the bloody scene circulating online and fueling public outrage.
Godfrey Polepole explained that the family immediately reported the incident to the authorities after visiting the house. The circumstances surrounding the alleged abduction remain unclear, and the family has called for a swift and thorough investigation to determine the whereabouts of the former ambassador.
However, in response to reports about the alleged abduction, Dar es Salaam Police Chief Jumanne Muliro appeared to question the incident, noting that Humphrey Polepole had often claimed to be outside the country. “So how could this happen at his home in Tanzania?” Muliro asked. He further stated that he was personally following developments in the case, emphasizing that the police also wanted to “know what’s really happening.”
Meanwhile, National Police Spokesperson David Misime confirmed that the authorities are aware of the incident and that an official investigation is underway. Misime assured the public that the police are taking the matter seriously and will provide updates once credible information becomes available.
Humphrey Polepole, who previously served as Tanzania’s ambassador to Cuba, resigned from his diplomatic post earlier this year after publicly criticizing the government of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. In his resignation statement, he declared that he could no longer serve in an administration that, in his view, “disrespects justice, the rule of law, and constitutional principles.” His resignation was widely interpreted as a bold act of defiance against the Tanzanian establishment, given his previous affiliation with the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).
Following his public criticism, President Hassan formally revoked Polepole’s diplomatic appointment, effectively stripping him of his ambassadorial privileges. Since then, he has become a prominent voice in Tanzania’s political landscape, often using public platforms and social media to challenge government policies and advocate for transparency, human rights, and good governance.
The news of his alleged abduction has therefore sent shockwaves through Tanzania’s civil and political circles, with many activists, opposition figures, and citizens expressing fear that the incident may signal a worrying escalation in the suppression of dissenting voices. Rights groups have long warned of increasing threats to freedom of expression in Tanzania, despite promises by the current administration to foster openness and accountability.
While the full details of the alleged abduction remain uncertain, the case has reignited debates about political tolerance, safety of government critics, and the protection of human rights in Tanzania. Many are calling on law enforcement authorities to act swiftly and transparently to locate Humphrey Polepole and bring those responsible for his disappearance to justice.
As the investigation continues, the nation and the wider international community watches closely. The fate of Humphrey Polepole could become a defining moment for Tanzania’s democracy, testing the government’s commitment to justice, accountability, and respect for dissenting voices.
Leave a comment