Tanzania’s Sativa Abduction Sparks Political Firestorm as Fundraising Controversy Erupts

By Adonis Byemelwa

The gripping ordeal of Edgar Mwakabela, widely recognized as Sativa, who endured a four-day abduction and abandonment in Katavi National Park with severe injuries, has now morphed into a political controversy in Tanzania.

Sativa vanished on June 23, 2024, only to be discovered on June 27, 2024, afflicted primarily with injuries to his jaw. He was swiftly airlifted from Katavi to Dar es Salaam and admitted to Aga Khan Hospital for urgent medical care.

Online campaigns to raise funds for Sativa's medical expenses are ongoing, with various politicians getting involved.

Former Kigoma Urban MP Zitto Kabwe revealed that President Samia Suluhu Hassan contributed Sh35 million directly to Aga Khan Hospital for Sativa's treatment.

However, controversy surrounds the fundraising efforts, with debates erupting online about political agendas overshadowing the humanitarian cause.

According to Taivina James, a friend of Sativa who first reported his disappearance, there are concerns about transparency in the fundraising efforts.

She questioned why some political figures, including Zitto Kabwe, only publicly acknowledged their contributions after the initial efforts by others were already underway.

Responding to accusations of exploiting the situation for political gain, Zitto Kabwe defended his actions, stating, "I did everything possible to save Sativa's life. I have nothing more to add on this matter. It pains me that this has become a topic of debate. We are only hurting Sativa with these discussions. Let's end it."

Amidst conflicting claims about who funded Sativa's transport from Katavi to Dar es Salaam, Zitto maintained that there was no controversy, urging the public to focus on the facts.

Sativa's brother, Patrick Israel, declined to comment on the matter, stating that discussions would be held at a later time when appropriate.

Martin Masese, the coordinator of Sativa's medical fundraiser, emphasized that every individual contributed in their way, including Zitto and others, but stressed that the focus should remain on supporting Sativa's recovery rather than political gains.

In another development, the Coordinator of the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC), Onesmo Olengurumwa, called on the government to establish a special commission to investigate cases of abductions and disappearances, particularly those involving law enforcement agencies.

Speaking during the presentation of the 2023 report on the state of human rights defenders and civil society in Dar es Salaam, Olengurumwa highlighted the government's failure to prosecute those responsible for such incidents, similar to the case of Tundu Lissu.

"These incidents have two faces: some involve civilian-related issues, while others implicate law enforcement agencies. Despite the rising cases, there have been no arrests or prosecutions," Olengurumwa stated.

He urged President Samia Suluhu Hassan to take decisive action to prevent such occurrences in the future, including the formation of a special investigative body, emphasizing the need for independent scrutiny when law enforcement agencies are implicated.

Tanzania's Minister of Home Affairs, Hamad Masauni, has reassured the public of their safety amidst rising concerns over recent abduction cases, referring to a comprehensive report by Tanzania's respected newspaper, Mwananchi, titled "Who is the Kidnapper?" published on July 2, 2024.

Speaking today, Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at the launch of a book on ethical decay by Tanzania's Mufti Sheikh Abubakar Zubeir at Mohammed VI Mosque in Kinondoni, Dar es Salaam, Masauni strongly denounced the politicization of these criminal acts of abduction, noting the widespread alarm caused by reports suggesting a surge in kidnappings allegedly involving government security agencies.

"I want to assure you that Tanzania is safe," Masauni asserted. He disclosed that since January this year, there have been nearly eight reported cases of abduction-related crimes. Among these incidents, Masauni highlighted a case in Dar es Salaam where a suspect kidnapped and assaulted a young girl on June 24, 2024, but was swiftly apprehended. Additionally, he mentioned an ongoing case in Katavi related to land disputes, where four suspects are currently facing court charges.

Mwananchi is known for its investigative journalism and plays a crucial role in exposing such issues," acknowledged Masauni, as he underscored the government's commitment to citizen safety. He attributed a 5% decrease in crime from July 2023 to April 2024 to improved police capabilities and modern systems, affirming that the government's foremost duty is to safeguard the community against all forms of crime, including ethical decay.

Despite assurances of overall security, concerns persist over unresolved criminal cases, reflecting broader anxieties about law enforcement effectiveness. These concerns intersect with the political realm, notably seen in the aftermath of Sativa's abduction.

 The fundraising efforts for Sativa's medical expenses have become a focal point, drawing scrutiny over transparency and political motivations behind contributions.

As Tanzania grapples with these issues, the outcomes of ongoing investigations into abduction cases will significantly impact public trust in law enforcement and government responsiveness. The convergence of humanitarian concerns with political dynamics underlines the intricate landscape shaping public discourse on security and governance in Tanzania today.