The Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance (CHRAGG) has called on the Tanzania Police Force to observe professionalism and avoid unnecessary tension during the election period.
Speaking during a training session on human rights and good governance for police officials on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, CHRAGG Chairperson, Retired Judge Mathew Mwaimu, stressed the importance of upholding human rights throughout the electoral process.
“For elections to be free and fair, before, during, and after the polls, human rights must be respected, protected, and fulfilled,” said Judge Mwaimu.
He continued: “During this election period, the Police Force has a duty to avoid unnecessary conflicts. Instead, they must ensure the safety of people and their property throughout the entire election period.”
“Law enforcement officers must at all times fulfill their legal obligations by engaging with the community and protecting all people from acts that violate the law, while observing the highest level of accountability required by their profession,” he emphasized.
Speaking during the training, Senior Police Official of the Dodoma Urban District, Grace Salia, said the training will help them work professionally while respecting human rights, especially during this campaign period and leading up to the General Election on October 29, 2025.
“We will adhere to laws, procedures, and regulations while safeguarding human rights, bearing in mind that our country has signed various international treaties related to human rights,” she said.
The Commission’s call comes amid public debate over recent police actions at the Dar es Salaam High Court, where several members of the opposition party CHADEMA were beaten by police while attending the ongoing treason trial of opposition leader Tundu Lissu.
While the police maintain they are ready to safeguard peace and stability in the country, opposition parties CHADEMA and ACT Wazalendo have repeatedly accused the police of curtailing civic and political space.
In his address, Mwaimu reiterated the police role in upholding peace, justice, and freedoms. “The Commission calls upon the Police Force to safeguard freedom, justice, and peace so that citizens can exercise their constitutional right to choose their leaders as they perform their duties. They must adhere to professional ethics and respect human rights and good governance,” Mwaimu added.
