By Adonis Byemelwa
In a troubling viral incident, Christina Kibiki, a former district secretary for Tanzania’s ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), was fatally shot by unknown assailants on the night of November 13, 2024.
The attack took place near Iringa, in the small village of Banawanu, Mseke Ward, Mlolo division, where she resided. Kibiki was rushed to the Tosamaganga Regional Referral Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries shortly afterward. This high-profile killing has cast a shadow over the region, raising questions about security, particularly for politically affiliated individuals in Tanzania.
John Kiteve, CCM’s District Chairman for Kilolo, expressed shock and deep sadness over the murder. “This tragic incident has affected us all profoundly. Losing a colleague in such a brutal way is a terrible loss to our community and the entire CCM family,” he said, speaking by phone to local media.
Kiteve’s sentiments echo the widespread grief within the party, as Kibiki was known for her dedicated service and her expected role in a CCM seminar scheduled in Dodoma the day following her death. Her killing comes at a time when political tensions have been rising in Tanzania, particularly as the country gears up for local government elections later this month.
In an official statement, Amos Makalla, CCM’s Secretary of Ideology and Publicity, condemned the act of violence and called for patience as authorities investigate the incident.
“The Chama Cha Mapinduzi received the news of Christina’s death with profound sadness and shock. We extend our condolences to her family, friends, and party members across Iringa, who are left reeling from this tragedy. We ask all members to stay calm while law enforcement agencies pursue those responsible to ensure they face justice,” said Makalla.
He confirmed that Kibiki had been scheduled to participate in a key training seminar in Dodoma just a day after the fatal attack.
Despite efforts to contact Iringa Regional Police Commander Allan Bukumbi for details, authorities have yet to provide any additional information on suspects or motives.
Media outlets in Tanzania continue to follow developments closely, with many questioning the state of security measures for political leaders, particularly in rural areas where such attacks seem more prevalent.
Tanzania has faced a series of politically motivated attacks and killings in recent years. August 2020 saw the violent death of Brian Morell, a member of the CCM’s Youth Wing, UVCCM, during clashes in Tunduma.
The altercation broke out when a CCM candidate’s name was disqualified in local elections, sparking confrontations between CCM and opposition supporters.
Similarly, in May 2017, CCM branch chairman Iddy Kirungi was shot dead in Kibiti District in his own home, where his young son was also gravely injured by gunfire. These incidents reflect a worrying pattern of violence targeting party members and local leaders.
Opposition figures have faced equally disturbing incidents, drawing international scrutiny and criticism from human rights organizations.
In a report from June 2024, Human Rights Watch raised alarms over the deteriorating climate for free expression and political participation in Tanzania, noting that at least eight government critics had been abducted or killed in unexplained circumstances this year alone. Many opposition activists have also reportedly been detained under questionable circumstances.
One such case involved Kombo Mbwana, an official from the opposition party Chadema, who was detained by police in Handeni District, Tanga region, after being reported missing for a month. His detention, based on a minor telecommunications technicality, has been widely criticized as a political tactic to silence opposition members.
Authorities also detained social media commentator Edgar Mwakabela in June 2024, allegedly for his online advocacy and ties with opposition leaders. Mwakabela reported being held and interrogated for hours about his political affiliations.
Other cases have involved mysterious disappearances that have left families devastated. Chadema officials Dioniz Kipanya from Sumbawanga District and Deusdedith Soka were reported missing this year, with little to no information from authorities on their whereabouts or welfare.
In an especially disturbing incident, Chadema official Ali Mohamed Kibao was found dead in September 2024. His body bore signs of assault, including acid burns, leading to public outrage. President Samia Suluhu Hassan ordered an investigation, but no suspects have been identified or detained in connection with the murder.
These incidents have cast a growing shadow over Tanzania’s political landscape, especially with local government elections approaching on November 27, 2024. Human Rights Watch’s Africa researcher, Oryem Nyeko, has publicly criticized the Tanzanian government’s approach to civil liberties, stating:
“The lack of tolerance for free expression and the silencing of political opposition creates a dangerous climate for democracy in Tanzania. Authorities must address these issues to prevent further violence and ensure a peaceful political environment.”
The series of killings, abductions, and attacks on both ruling party members and opposition figures have fueled concerns about political stability and safety in Tanzania. Many fear that continued violence could jeopardize public confidence in law enforcement and judicial systems if perpetrators are not swiftly brought to justice.
Observers have called for Tanzanian authorities to take concrete steps to protect political leaders and create an environment conducive to safe and fair elections. While the investigation into Kibiki’s murder is underway, there is hope for a transparent and thorough process that can restore faith among citizens and prevent similar tragedies.
The Tanzanian public remains on edge, with many seeking assurances that political violence will be addressed comprehensively, rather than met with silence. The call for peace and stability, voiced by politicians, citizens, and international organizations alike, echoes louder than ever as the November elections draw near.
