Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila asked about the whereabouts of the abducted ambassador Humphrey Polepole
The most contentious questions asked by the press to governor of Dar es Salaam county Mr Abert John Chalamila revolved around the intelligence failures leading up to the October 29th chaos in Tanzania , the perceived aggressiveness of the security response, and the lack of official data.
He was also asked about the whereabouts of the abducted former ambassador Humphrey Polepole.
Did you issue similar aggressive orders to the police in Dar es Salaam as you once did for "thugs" in Mbeya? by John Bukuku.
View: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=U_JcS8syiHs
Chalamila explicitly stated, "Hapana" (No), explaining the Mbeya context was about self-defense against armed intrusion.
He stressed that the police operate with professional integrity and are not simply following direct orders from the RC Where was the intelligence/security committee that they failed to detect the chaos before it occurred? by Abdalla Majura, Lambert.
Chalamila acknowledged having information but said security opted not to act preemptively to avoid claims of political intimidation before the polls.
He justified the rapid response by emphasizing the security forces had to protect critical infrastructure like the national gas plants and the airport from arson/bombings, which he called a security "principle."
Don't leaders' statements, like your own quote that "we don't eat internet" (during the curfew / shutdown), contribute to public anger/incitement? by Lambert.
Chalamila admitted that "it's possible that's what I said" when "calmness is not great, it becomes a problem." He justified his communications by noting that his presence helps people "heal" and feel safe.RC Chalamila did not provide direct answers or used justification/security concerns to deflect the following contentious questions:
What is the specific security plan to guarantee safety for the upcoming December 9th, 2025 ? by Anna Mwasioke.
Chalamila refused to give specifics, stating it would be like giving out the "password" to their security strategy. He offered a general reassurance instead, warning the public not to succumb to fear.
Why are police officers seen wearing masks "ninja" masks/gear if you criticize the rioters for wearing them? by Salim.
Chalamila avoided the specific subject of police attire, instead generally agreeing that "no one is above the law," without addressing the use of masks by the police force.
What is the total cost of the new rapid bus machines and the government/public damage assessment? by Lambert.
Chalamila refused to provide a figure for the cost of the replacement bus machines. He stated that providing specific figures might trigger a new public controversy about "procurement" corruption and insisted that some information is "beyond necessity" for security reasons.
Question About Humphrey Polepole The question regarding Humphrey Polepole was and what happpened to him was asked by journalist David Royagira.
RC Chalamila's response was that he did not know what happened to Polepole [01:14:30]. He added that he does not have any official security profile or connection to Polepole, as no law requires a former ambassador to report to the Regional Commissioner.
Chalamila said he only follows Polepole's story in the media and on platforms like YouTube. Chalamila said he is waiting for the official word from the police's ongoing investigation, which he trusts
