JF Summary
Senior Member
- Jul 3, 2015
- 163
- 109
Mange's Case Adjourned to January 28, 2026; Investigation Incomplete
Economic Sabotage Case No. 000021172 of 2025, facing activist Mange Kimambi, has been adjourned until January 28, 2026, after the Republic (Prosecution) told the Kisutu Resident Magistrate's Court, before Senior Resident Magistrate Hassan Makube, that the investigation is not yet complete. The case was called today, December 4, 2025, and the defense side had no lawyer. The court directed that all procedures be completed before the new hearing date.Mange faces a charge of money laundering amounting to TSh138.5 million, allegedly obtained between March 1 and 31, 2022, in Dar es Salaam by engaging in journalism without a permit and demanding it through threats, contrary to the Anti-Money Laundering Act and the Economic Sabotage Act.
Citizens' Opinions:
Many have expressed cynicism, saying the Government is accustomed to oppressing Tanzanians and hurting them through the courts due to the President's immense powers. They suggest the authorities are now panicking because they have reached a point where the rule of law is being scrutinized, leaving no room for the arbitrary oppression of opponents or activists for criticizing the Government. Additionally, some continued to criticize the Republic for opening the case, saying it is a misuse of public funds on a baseless political case rather than directing efforts toward issues important to citizens.
US to Re-evaluate its Relations with Tanzania; UN Human Rights Experts Condemn Events
The United States has announced it will begin a re-evaluation of its diplomatic relations with Tanzania, citing recent events in the country that have raised concerns about security, democracy, and the investment climate.According to a statement by the US Department of State Deputy Spokesperson, Tommy Pigott, various actions by the Government of Tanzania, including allegations of suppressing freedom of religion and freedom of expression, as well as obstacles to US investment, have prompted Washington to begin reviewing the future of this cooperation.
Pigott stated that incidents of violence against civilians before and after the October 29 election have increased doubts about the reliability of the Government of Tanzania as a long-term partner. The US has warned that these actions endanger its citizens, tourists, and interests within Tanzania, emphasizing that the future of diplomatic relations will depend on steps taken by the Government of Tanzania in the coming period.
Meanwhile, UN Human Rights Experts have blamed Tanzania for what they call an increase in human rights violations following the October 29 election, reporting allegations of arbitrary killings, enforced disappearances, and mass arrests against protesters, opposition leaders, and civil society organizations. They have said the Government must provide information on missing persons, remove alleged information blackouts, and establish an independent and thorough investigation into these events.
Citizens' Opinions:
Many have said these are the results of President Samia's speech at a meeting with Dar es Salaam elders on December 2, in which she said that Tanzania cannot be pushed around or told what to do by foreign nations, as it is no longer a colony of any country. She stated that the aid they provide is small and currently non-existent, questioning in a manner interpreted as mockery and arrogance, "Who are you?" In light of this statement, many believe Tanzania's economic situation will deteriorate further, saying the US might open the door for other countries to impose additional sanctions on Tanzania.
Others have continued to commend international institutions and Western countries for showing disgust at what happened during the election and demanding accountability, saying if these voices multiply, Samia and her Government will have no choice but to be accountable! Some said these statements further damage Tanzania's international image, its relations with other countries, and opportunities for youth.
Canadian High Commission to Suspend Services from December 8 to 10
The Canadian High Commission in Tanzania has announced it will suspend in-person services from December 8 to 10. A statement released on December 4 through their X (Twitter) page explained that all regular consular services will be unavailable during this period.However, the High Commission clarified that emergency services for its citizens in Tanzania will remain available 24 hours a day through the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
Citizens' Opinions:
Many have interpreted this statement as the High Commission acknowledging the planned protests scheduled for December 9, and thus making room for this important event to take place, as it is their (Tanzanians') Constitutional right.
Others expressed that it is saddening to see foreigners recognizing the importance and right of citizens to protest, at the same time, domestic authorities, especially security organs, continue to issue threats to civilians and arrest people for fulfilling their duty.
Meta Given Legal Order by TCRA to Block Maria Sarungi's Instagram Account; Mange Violated Meta Rules
CNN Journalist Larry Madowo has revealed Meta's response to questions about the reasons behind the blocking of the accounts of Tanzanian activists Mange Kimambi and Maria Sarungi.Meta explained that Mange Kimambi's Instagram account has been permanently deleted, and that she has also been blocked from using WhatsApp for repeatedly violating company policies, specifically the recidivism policy, which prohibits users from opening new accounts similar to those previously deleted for previous violations.
Regarding Maria Sarungi, Meta confirmed that her Instagram account has been blocked from viewing in Tanzania following a legal order from TCRA. Meta emphasized that it values freedom of expression but is compelled to comply with local regulatory requirements when issued legal directives.
Citizens' Opinions:
Some have said that the move to block and ban these activists' accounts will not undermine citizens' resolve or their efforts to continue demanding rights and raising their voices through social media. Many accused the Government of involvement, as these platforms have been used to expose many evils in the country.
