The European Union and the United States have condemned the assault on Charles Kitima, a prominent Tanzanian cleric advocating for electoral reforms.
Kitima, secretary general of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), was hospitalized after a violent attack by unknown assailants.
This incident raises serious concerns amidst rising political tensions ahead of Tanzania’s October elections.
The TEC had recently called for government reforms and criticized the arrest of opposition leader Tundu Lissu.
The US Embassy, via X, prayed for Kitima’s recovery, denouncing violence aimed at silencing calls for justice and human rights.
The EU echoed these sentiments, expressing deep sadness and demanding a thorough investigation into the attack.
Lissu, leader of the Chadema opposition party, faces treason charges, potentially carrying the death penalty.
His party was also disqualified from the elections after refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct.
Chadema alleges President Samia Suluhu Hassan is reverting to repressive tactics, a claim supported by rights groups and Western governments.
They cite increased arrests, abductions, and murders of opposition figures.
