Growing Fears for Former Tanzanian Diplomat as Disappearances and Repression Rise Ahead of Elections
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania - October 10, 2025 – Concerns are mounting over teh safety and whereabouts of Humphrey Polepole, a former Tanzanian diplomat and vocal government critic, following a violent break-in at his Dar es Salaam residence on October 6th. The incident, coupled wiht a recent pattern of enforced disappearances and attacks on dissenting voices, is fueling anxieties about escalating political repression in Tanzania as the nation prepares for general elections on October 29th.
Evidence gathered by his family,including video and photographic documentation,points to a brutal struggle at Polepole’s home. The door was found forced open, electrical wiring severed, and a meaningful amount of blood was discovered at the scene. Polepole himself remains missing, prompting fears he has been forcibly disappeared.
“Amnesty International is deeply alarmed by the potential forced disappearance and possible assault of Humphrey Polepole,” stated Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa. “The Tanzanian government must dedicate every available resource to locating him and ensuring his safe return. Critically, they must hold those responsible for this act accountable.”
A Pattern of Intimidation and Violence
This incident is not isolated. Just three months prior,on July 17th,Polepole reported the abduction of his sister from her home in Bahari Beach,Dar es salaam. She was subjected to beatings before being abandoned near her residence the following night. this escalating pattern of violence against Polepole’s family underscores a disturbing trend of intimidation targeting those who challenge the ruling chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.
Polepole himself resigned from his diplomatic post earlier in 2025 after publicly denouncing the government’s perceived disregard for justice, the rule of law, and constitutional principles. his outspoken criticism has seemingly made him a target.
“Far too many people have disappeared in Tanzania in recent years without any accountability,” Chagutah emphasized.”Authorities must bring this impunity to an end.”
Police Investigation and Conflicting Accounts
Polepole’s family promptly reported the break-in to Mbezi police Station on October 6th. A habeas corpus application was filed with the court on October 7th by his legal counsel. During the initial police investigation, family members report that officers removed several items from Polepole’s home, including a printer and a safe, raising questions about the scope and focus of the inquiry.
Police spokesperson david Misime stated that Polepole had been summoned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) regarding allegations made on social media but failed to appear. Authorities claim they are currently investigating the authenticity of the abduction claims. However, the lack of concrete details and the history of similar cases raise serious doubts about the thoroughness and impartiality of the investigation.
International Concerns and a History of enforced Disappearances
The situation in Tanzania has drawn the attention of international human rights bodies. in June 2025, UN human rights experts issued a strong condemnation of the “pattern of enforced disappearance and torture” targeting political opponents, human rights defenders, and journalists in Tanzania, particularly within the context of the upcoming elections. The experts urged the government to instantly cease these practices, which they characterized as tools of repression.
Enforced disappearance, under international law, is defined by the state’s refusal to acknowledge detention or disclose the fate or whereabouts of an individual taken by unidentified actors, often with the support or acquiescence of state officials. This practice creates a climate of fear and silences dissent.
The list of individuals currently missing in Tanzania is tragically long, including: Anthony Gabriel, Daniel Chonchorio, Deusdedith Soka, Dioniz Kipanya, Fakih Ali Salim, Frank Mbise, Jacob Mlay, Mdude Nyagali, Shadrack Chaula, Sinda Mseti, and Siza Mwita Keheta. Their continued absence serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for accountability and transparency from Tanzanian authorities.
Erosion of Democratic Principles
the increasing frequency of these incidents raises profound concerns about the erosion of democratic principles in Tanzania. The targeting of government critics and the apparent impunity enjoyed by perpetrators threaten the fairness and credibility of the upcoming elections.
The international community, including Amnesty International and the United Nations, is closely monitoring the situation and urging the Tanzanian government to uphold its human rights obligations, protect its citizens, and ensure a free and fair electoral process. The fate of Humphrey Polepole,and the many others who have disappeared,hangs
