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Outcry Against Injustice: Tanzanian Activists Released After Incitement Charges

April 28, 2024

By Adonis Byemelwa

The arrest of Malisa GJ and Jacob Boniface serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges inherent. Photo Courtesy

Former Ubungo Mayor, Jacob Boniface, popularly known as Boni Yai, along with activist Godlisen Malisa, has been released on bail by the Special Zone Police in Dar es Salaam after being held for three days on charges of incitement.

The allegations of incitement against the two are related to posting information on social media claiming that the Police Force is killing civilians, linking to the death of Robert Mushi, also known as Babu G. These allegations were denied by the Police, stating that the information incites hatred against the institution and that Mushi died in a road accident, with his body already buried on Thursday at his home in Shirimatunda, Moshi Town, Kilimanjaro region.

Following these allegations, the Police called in the two for questioning, and on April 25, 2024, they reported to the Oysterbay Police Station but were then taken to the offices of the Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police.

After their release, Boniface Jacob addressed the gathered press, his voice firm with conviction, "We will not be silenced in our pursuit of justice for the people of Tanzania. Our detention was unjust, but it only strengthens our resolve to continue fighting for the rights of every citizen."

Reflecting on the gravity of the situation, he continued, "We cannot turn a blind eye to the alarming trend of extrajudicial killings by the police in Tanzania. We must speak out against such atrocities and demand accountability."

Jacob's words echoed the sentiments of many who have long been concerned about the issue of police brutality and lack of accountability in Tanzania. The recent case of Robert Mushi, tragically killed in a supposed hit-and-run accident, only serves to highlight the urgent need for systemic change.

"In the case of Robert Mushi, we see a clear example of how false accusations and misinformation can be used to justify violence and oppression," Jacob asserted. "But we refuse to let his death be in vain. We will continue to seek justice for him and all others who have fallen victim to police brutality."

He emphasized the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. "We must hold our institutions accountable and demand transparency and justice for all. The people of Tanzania deserve better, and we will not rest until they receive it."

The case of Jacob Boniface and Godlisen Malisa is not an isolated incident in Tanzania. It sheds light on a broader pattern of using incitement allegations to silence dissent and suppress calls for accountability.

Across the country, activists, journalists, and opposition figures have faced similar accusations of incitement when speaking out against government policies or highlighting human rights abuses. These allegations are often unsubstantiated and serve as a pretext for harassment, intimidation, and even arbitrary arrests.

The misuse of incitement charges undermines freedom of expression and stifles democratic debate. It creates a climate of fear and impunity, where individuals are afraid to speak out for fear of reprisals.

Moreover, the politicization of the justice system further exacerbates the problem. In many cases, individuals accused of incitement are denied fair trials and due process, with the legal system being used as a tool to silence dissent rather than uphold justice.

Despite these challenges, activists like Jacob Boniface and Godlisen Malisa remain undeterred in their fight for justice and human rights. Their courage and resilience inspire others to continue speaking truth to power and holding those in positions of authority accountable for their actions.

Tanzania strives to build a brighter future; it must address the root causes of incitement allegations and ensure that freedom of expression is protected and respected by all its citizens. Only then can the country truly fulfill its democratic aspirations and create a society where justice and human rights prevail.

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