Dar es Salaam. The University of Dar es Salaam Academic Staff Assembly (UDASA) has called on government authorities and security agencies to end the wave of reported abductions across the country, warning that such incidents violate citizens’ rights and tarnish Tanzania’s international image.
In a statement issued on Thursday, UDASA expressed deep concern over the growing impunity of so-called “unknown assailants” allegedly responsible for abductions and disappearances of citizens, criticizing state organs for failing to curb the trend or provide clear public explanations.
“At present, the so-called unknown people appear to be above the Constitution. Their brutal actions violate Article 13(6)(e) of the Constitution,” the statement read.
UDASA reminds the government that the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania obliges the state and its institutions to ensure equal protection for all citizens and to prevent acts of oppression, intimidation, discrimination, corruption, and abuse of power.
“Unfortunately, abductions, killings, and acts of brutality have become increasingly common in recent years. Has the government failed to fully control these incidents and, in doing so, neglected its constitutional duty?” UDASA questioned.
The association voiced alarm over the frequent targeting of government critics in abduction cases, saying this pattern suggests political motives and threatens the country’s multi-party democracy.
They cited past incidents, including the abduction and murder of opposition leader Ali Kibao (CHADEMA) in 2024, the disappearance of CHADEMA youth leader Deuthdeus Soka, and activist Mdude Nyagali, as well as the recent case of former Tanzanian Ambassador to Cuba and Malawi, Humphrey Polepole, whose family reported his abduction and disappearance to date.
“Such incidents project a disturbing image of our country and undermine the very essence of democracy and good governance,” the statement noted.
UDASA urged authorities to address reports of human rights violations linked to security organs, as documented by advocacy groups such as the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC), and Amnesty International.
The academics also proposed the formation of a Judicial or Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry to investigate abduction incidents over the past five years. They emphasized that even if such reports require political will to act upon, the findings would help restore citizens’ trust in the government and strengthen national unity.
“If decisive and professional actions are not taken, public confidence in the state will erode, creating vulnerabilities that hostile foreign actors could exploit,” UDASA cautioned.
READ MORE: Carrots and Sticks: Election Heat Rises in Tanzania as Appeals for Peace Gather Steam
They further called on law enforcement agencies to operate professionally, adhere to the law and Constitution, and avoid excessive force, particularly during arrests and crowd dispersal.
The UDASA statement comes amidst a wave of reported abductions targeting members of the opposition party, CHADEMA. More than ten youth have reportedly been taken in most cases by armed individuals in white Land Cruiser vehicles.
Earlier, on June 18, 2025, Police Spokesperson DCP David Misime addressed the issue of disappearances, saying investigations had revealed causes ranging from self-abductions, jealousy, and witchcraft beliefs to revenge, radicalization, and fugitives escaping justice after committing crimes.
In a separate part of their statement, UDASA also appealed for calm and dialogue among political stakeholders in the run-up to the general elections, warning against violence and polarization.
“We believe voting is both a right and a duty of every Tanzanian, and every citizen has the right to be elected as provided by the Constitution and the laws,” UDASA stated.
They urged future national leaders to prioritize inclusive dialogue and national reconciliation immediately after the elections by engaging all political parties, civil society organizations, and other groups to foster unity and peace.
