Category: The Citizen

Traditional healer Salvatory Richard has escaped serving a 30-year prison sentence after the High Court in Geita found that the evidence used to convict him left serious doubts regarding his identity and the circumstances of the incidents.

The court quashed the Bukombe District Court judgment that sentenced him on two counts of rape and ordered his immediate release, unless held for another lawful reason.

The decision was delivered on Friday, July 24, 2026, by Justice Griffin Mwakapeje, following Mr Richard’s appeal challenging the Bukombe District Court judgment in criminal case Number 7264 of 2026.

Initially, Mr Richard was convicted of two rape offences under sections 130(1), (2)(e) and 131(1) of the Penal Code and sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment per count, with sentences running concurrently.

The main case

During trial proceedings, the prosecution presented six witnesses, wherein the victims’ mother (first witness) told the court her children knew Mr Richard because he was their neighbour and a traditional healer in Maganzo Village.

She claimed one child visited him for eye treatment, whilst the other knew him due to residential proximity and family business activities.

The two victims, designated in court as first and second witnesses to protect their identities, testified about the incidents.

One claimed being subjected to repeated sexual acts between November 2025 and March 2026 whilst visiting Mr Richard for treatment, whereas the other claimed being persuaded to go to the traditional healing premises under the pretext of helping prepare medicine, where she claimed she was raped.

The victims also claimed Mr Richard threatened them against disclosing the incidents, with one claiming he gave her money so she would not inform anyone.

According to their mother, these claims emerged on March 19, 2026, after questioning one child about money she was spending at school.

The child allegedly named Mr Richard as the source of the money and subsequently disclosed the alleged sexual acts.

After interviewing the other child, who made similar claims, the mother reported the matter to the sub-village leadership.

Defence

In his defence, Mr Richard told the court that in November 2025, the victims’ mother approached him to treat her children and agreed on a Sh500,000 fee, paying Sh200,000 and leaving an outstanding Sh300,000 debt.

He claimed the case was fabricated after he began demanding the remaining payment.

After hearing both sides’ evidence, the Bukombe District Court convicted him and sentenced him to 30 years’ imprisonment per count, running concurrently.

Appeal

Dissatisfied with that outcome, Mr Richard appealed, claiming the District Court erred in convicting him when the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.

He also claimed the court relied on weak and false victim evidence, gave insufficient weight to his defence, and convicted him without adequate evidence establishing the victims’ ages, particularly since birth certificates were not produced.

Court ruling

After re-evaluating all evidence, the High Court stated the primary issue was whether the prosecution proved beyond reasonable doubt that Mr Richard committed the offences.

The court noted that while a victim’s sole evidence can suffice to prove a sexual offence, it must be evaluated for consistency, credibility, and alignment with other evidence.

The judge noted doubts surrounding the delay by victims in naming Mr Richard, as allegations commenced in November 2025, yet his name was linked to allegations in March 2026, roughly four months later.

The court also noted the significance of failing to call the Maganzo Sub-village Chairman, who was the first person involved with the complaint, stating his absence left a vital gap in the prosecution case.

The court further noted unanswered questions regarding how incidents allegedly occurred over several months while Mr Richard remained a family neighbour and one victim reportedly visited him regularly for treatment.

Given these shortcomings, the court declared itself unsatisfied that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Owing to these flaws, the court allowed the appeal, set aside the conviction and sentence imposed by Bukombe District Court, and ordered Mr Richard’s immediate release, unless lawfully detained otherwise.

Mainland Premier League giants Simba have officially completed the signing of Nigerian midfielder Ibraheem Jabaar, with the club confirming his arrival after he left South African Premiership side Stellenbosch FC at the expiry of his contract.

The 23-year-old joins the Msimbazi Street outfit as coach Steve Barker continues to strengthen his squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, which will see Simba compete in the Mainland Premier League, the CRDB Federation Cup, and the CAF Champions League.

Jabaar arrives in Tanzania with an impressive pedigree, having spent the last five years at Stellenbosch, where he developed into one of the club’s most reliable and influential players.

Stellenbosch confirmed his departure after the two parties failed to reach an agreement over a contract extension, bringing an end to a memorable chapter for the midfielder.

During his stay with the South African side, Jabaar made 140 appearances in all competitions, an indication of both his consistency and importance to the team.

His ability to control the tempo of matches, break up opposition attacks and initiate forward play made him a key figure in Stellenbosch’s midfield.

His outstanding performances also earned him a unique place in the club’s history.

Jabaar became the only player to win Stellenbosch’s Young Player of the Season award on two occasions, receiving the honour in both the 2021/22 and 2024/25 seasons.

The Nigerian has also built a reputation for his versatility, capable of operating as a defensive midfielder, central midfielder, or in a more advanced role when required.

His composure on the ball, work rate, and tactical awareness are expected to add quality and balance to Simba’s midfield.

His arrival is viewed as a major boost for Barker, who is looking to assemble a squad capable of reclaiming the Mainland Premier League title after finishing runners up to rivals Young Africans (Yanga) last season.

Simba also narrowly missed out on continental glory after ending the previous campaign as runners-up in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Jabaar is expected to link up quickly with his new teammates as Simba intensifies preparations for the new season.

The club has been active in the transfer market, targeting experienced players capable of making an immediate impact both domestically and in continental competitions.

For Simba supporters, the signing represents another statement of intent from the club’s management.

With his experience in one of Africa’s most competitive leagues and a proven record of consistency, Jabaar is expected to play a pivotal role as the Tanzanian giants pursue success on multiple fronts.

His arrival further underlines Simba’s ambition to build a stronger, more competitive squad capable of challenging for every major trophy during the 2026/27 season.

As Zanzibar prepares to host the International Technology and Artificial Intelligence Expo, the government has announced plans to transform the islands into a hub for innovation and digital transformation in Africa.

The expo, organised by South Africa-based Africa Business Inc in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications, Information Technology and Innovation and the Unique Touch Company, aims to bring together policymakers and technology stakeholders to discuss and promote the growth of the digital economy.

Speaking at a press briefing on the expo on Friday, July 24, 2026, Minister for Communications, Information Technology and Innovation Mudrik Ramadhan Soraga said the initiative is part of efforts to position Zanzibar as an attractive destination for investment by leading global technology companies.

“We want to see major global technology companies such as Google, Amazon, Meta and others establish their headquarters or branches here, and for Zanzibar to become a centre of innovation. To achieve that, we need platforms such as this,” said Mr Soraga.

He said the government is continuing to establish policies and create a favourable investment environment while developing laws that align with technological advancement to strengthen the sector.

The Unique Touch managing director, Mr Edwin George, said the expo aims to bring together experts from different countries and fields to share knowledge and explore opportunities in technology.

He said artificial intelligence (AI) has already begun transforming business operations, education systems and government administration, making it necessary for societies to embrace technological change.

“It is important for Zanzibar to be part of these changes and ensure that our young people, entrepreneurs, innovators and institutions have an opportunity to fully participate in this new digital economy,” he said.

The Director of Innovation at the Ministry of Communications, Information Technology and Innovation, Mr Samola Chacha, said Zanzibar would benefit from the expo through increased knowledge and awareness in information and communication technology (ICT).

Speaking virtually, Africa Business Inc chief marketing officer Lebohang Norwana said the expo represents an important opportunity for Zanzibar.

She said Zanzibar’s strategic geographical location, combined with its rich cultural and historical heritage, makes it an ideal destination for hosting major international technology events.

“For a long time, Zanzibar has been known for its attractive beaches and tourism sector, but it is now seeking to expand its economy by taking advantage of opportunities created by the digital technology revolution,” she said.

Hosting an international technology event of this scale places Zanzibar in a strong position to attract technology-driven investments, particularly in artificial intelligence, financial technology (FinTech), agricultural technology (AgriTech) and smart tourism.

The expo is scheduled to take place from September 24 to 26 in Unguja, Zanzibar, and is expected to bring together more than 1,500 participants from different African countries.

Zanzibar President, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has sworn in two of the three High Court judges he recently appointed, who have pledged to oversee, expedite and deliver justice within the law-interpreting body.

The judge-designate absent from the swearing-in ceremony was Raya Issa Msellem, though no official statement was issued regarding her absence.

Besides the judges, Dr Mwinyi also swore in the Public Leaders’ Ethics Commission Chairman, Dr Mahadh Juma Maalim, and Planning Commission executive secretary, Dr Josephine Kimaro.

Speaking to journalists after being sworn in on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Zanzibar State House, the judges said they will ensure justice is administered in accordance with the law and workplace guidelines.

Zanzibar High Court Judge Valentine Andrew Katema stated he will ensure he is guided by wisdom and the law in dispensing justice.

“I shall not go against existing procedure, so in following procedure, we shall manage to protect all fundamental rights,” said Judge Katema.

He said members of the public should know that the court is open, and anyone facing issues accessing justice, whether aggrieved or otherwise, should follow legal procedures and attend court on trial days.

He used the opportunity to urge citizens not to fear going to court to give evidence that could add value to judicial decisions.

“When cases reach court, society should be ready to help the court with evidence, coming to court to give testimony so that ultimately the court renders correct and fair decisions,” he said.

According to Judge Katema, previously a court registrar, if a citizen fails to attend court to give evidence, they have not helped the court deliver justice known to that individual.

Because the court was unassisted, it would deliver justice based solely on the evidence presented before it.

Judge Khamis Ali Simai said citizens prefer that their rights are not delayed, so the judiciary will strive to proceed swiftly so cases do not linger without departing from the principles of justice.

“We will strive, as the High Court does, to deliver justice within timely frameworks, without cases lingering, so that they conclude in good time,’ said Judge Simai.

“I am going to enforce oath number three, stating I will administer justice without favour, fear, or malice. Thus, we will maintain the court’s momentum,” he said.

He added that they will ensure rights are delivered without favouritism while executing the duties society has entrusted to them.

Public Leaders’ Ethics Commission Chairman, Dr Maalim, said his initial step will be meeting major commission stakeholders to listen and learn.

He added that during his early days in office, he will review documents and various writings to better understand the commission’s work alongside similar global organisations.

“Therefore, during my early days, my main task is learning, so that later I can develop a better execution plan for my duties,” he said.

Former Legal Officer Grade One at Njombe District Council, Mr Lusajo Mwakasege, has been granted leave by the High Court in Njombe to file a judicial review application challenging his dismissal, after the court found he possesses sufficient interest regarding his employment matter.

Mr Mwakasege was dismissed for being absent from work for over five working days, but he claimed this resulted from delayed payment of transfer allowances after being transferred to a new station, a situation he claimed caused his absence.

The High Court in Njombe gave him 14 days to submit a judicial review application challenging the procedure leading to his employment termination and ultimate dismissal.

That ruling came on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from Justice Victoria Nongwa, who heard Mr Mwakasege’s application against the President’s Office, Public Service Management, Public Service Commission, Njombe District Council, and the Attorney General.

The judge stated that after reviewing both parties’ arguments, the court satisfied itself that Mr Mwakasege has sufficient interest in this employment matter and gave him 14 days to submit the judicial review application, noting he raised arguable issues regarding the process used to terminate his employment.

Background of application

According to court records, Mr Mwakasege was a public servant serving in the aforementioned position at Njombe District Council following his transfer from Ubungo Municipal Council on February 22, 2019.

Following that transfer, he claimed he was not paid his transfer allowances, an issue he claimed caused his absence from work, and that rather than resolving allowance claims, his absence became a disciplinary matter culminating in dismissal.

Mr Mwakasege was accused of absenteeism exceeding five working days in 2019, with formal disciplinary charge notices issued July 3, 2019, and delivered September 17, 2019.

After responding to charges and participating in preliminary disciplinary steps, he was notified via letter dated November 5, 2019, that his employment was terminated effective October 25, 2019.

The officer disagreed with that decision and appealed, but his appeal was rejected and his dismissal upheld.

He continued administrative struggles by appealing to higher authority, but received no relief.

The court noted that in a letter dated April 19, 2022, re-sent April 9, 2025, he was informed his dismissal was confirmed and finalised by the President of the United Republic of Tanzania on March 26, 2022.

Having failed to secure relief administratively, Mr Mwakasege turned to the High Court seeking leave to file for judicial review.

In his application, he claimed the disciplinary process used was fraught with legal and procedural flaws.

Among his claims was that no mandatory preliminary investigation occurred prior to proceeding with disciplinary action.

He also claimed the investigation breached procedures, he received no full hearing opportunity, nor was he invited to comment on the inquiry committee report before the final decision.

Mr Mwakasege further claimed he was dismissed without opportunity to present mitigating arguments, and his appeal decision exceeded the legal 90-day limit.

Court ruling

Justice Nongwa stated that at the leave stage, an applicant need not fully prove their case as in the main hearing, but must demonstrate arguable issues requiring examination.

She said after reviewing arguments, the court found the applicant met leave requirements by showing sufficient interest and arguable issues.

The judge noted Mr Mwakasege’s claims regarding lack of preliminary investigation, absence of a hearing, failure to invite comments on inquiry reports, and alleged procedural breaches deserve examination in the main application.

‘Considering all these grievances, regardless of validity, I am persuaded the applicant demonstrated an arguable case for certiorari and mandamus orders,’ said the judge.

She added Mr Mwakasege exhausted all available administrative remedies, including appealing to higher authorities, leaving judicial review as his remaining option to challenge the dismissal.

‘In these circumstances, I am persuaded the applicant met standards for granting leave to seek judicial review,’ she said.

The private sector continues demonstrating its contribution to Tanzania’s economy after SBC Tanzania announced paying over Sh1 trillion in taxes during 25 years of domestic operations.

The company also announced plans to expand investment by adding a new plant at its Arusha factory and constructing a new factory in Dodoma Region to increase production and job creation.

SBC Tanzania managing director, Mr Himanshu Shekhar, made the revelation on Saturday, July 25, 2026, during the company’s 25th anniversary celebrations held in Morogoro.

He hinted that these achievements stemmed from a favourable investment environment set by the government, stakeholder cooperation, and employee dedication, enabling the company to grow into one of the country’s largest taxpayers.

He said over 25 years, the company paid over Sh1 trillion through the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), a contribution continuously supporting the government to fund social services and execute development projects.

‘Since commencing domestic operations, the company invested $100 million in total in various production activities and business expansion, whilst maintaining strategies to increase investment in coming years,’ he said.

He said the next step involves adding a new plant at the Arusha factory to boost production capacity, alongside constructing a new factory in Dodoma Region expanding production scope and bringing further employment opportunities.

“We are proud to be part of Tanzania’s development through tax payments, investment, and job creation. This success stems from great cooperation built with government, employees, and our various stakeholders,” said Mr Shekhar.

He said SBC has over 1,200 permanent employees and over 15,000 seasonal workers, whilst its operations contribute over 100,000 direct and indirect jobs through production, transport, distribution, commerce, and other services dependent on the company’s investment.

Beyond investment and tax payments, the company continues to execute corporate social responsibility activities.

During the anniversary celebrations, the company pledged to donate a tuk-tuk to the Youth with Disabilities and Children Centre Tanzania (Mihayo Tanzania) to ease transport for children and youths cared for by the centre.

Mihayo Tanzania director, Ms Linda Ngido, said the centre serves 91 total beneficiaries, including children with intellectual disabilities, youths, and vulnerable children from various areas nationwide.

She said amongst these beneficiaries, 45 children study in government special education schools, noting that 31 youths aged between 20 and 52 receive training in market gardening, handicrafts, and carpentry to enable self-reliance.

Ms Ngido said a major challenge facing them was lacking transport to serve beneficiaries living in Mazimbu and Mkundi alongside dormitory shortages, explaining that the donation would ease service delivery and reduce operational costs.

“We provide inclusive education, health services, vocational training, and life skills to orphans and youths with intellectual disabilities so they can become self-reliant and participate fully in community development,” she said.

SBC Tanzania sales manager for Morogoro and Dodoma regions, Mr Kassim Zarafi, said the 25th anniversary aimed not only at celebrating achievements, but also giving back to the community as part of the success the company attained through cooperation with Tanzanians alongside joining Mihayo Tanzania centre.

For his part, Tanzania Union of Industrial and Commercial Workers (Tuico) SBC Morogoro branch Chairman, Mr Noah Boneka said the company’s growth paralleled improved worker welfare through collective bargaining agreements, a move contributing to raising employee and family well-being alongside increasing job opportunities for many Tanzanians.

He said these developments demonstrate how private sector investment can stimulate economic growth, boost government revenue through taxes, and improve citizens’ lives through employment and social projects.

Minerals Minister Anthony Mavunde has instructed the Mbogwe resident mining officer to collaborate with mining licence holders at the Msasa mine in Runzewe West Ward, Bukombe District, to purchase modern scanner equipment to replace body searches that degrade miners’ dignity.

Mr Mavunde issued these directives on Saturday, July 25, 2026, during a public meeting held in Uyovu Runzewe during his tour inspecting development projects executed in Geita Region, following a grievance raised by a local miner speaking on behalf of his colleagues.

The miner, who introduced himself as Mr Sebastian Aron, said upon emerging from pits, they face searches including private parts inspection, degrading their dignity and prompting calls for government intervention.

‘You emerge from pits arriving at the gate to get searched; you’re told to strip your gumboots and searched down to private parts, so I don’t understand these formulas they use when I have no pocket and am carrying nothing, yet you get searched whilst coming out exhausted,’ he said.

Upon receiving the complaint, Mr Mavunde directed the resident mining officer to collaborate with mine leadership to install modern inspection systems that do not strip miners of their dignity.

Furthermore, he urged miners to desist from mineral theft and follow employer procedures without breaching laws.

‘Respect and decency must prevail during inspection exercises; let’s not strip people of their dignity. RMO (Resident Mines Office), please supervise this, sit down, converse properly, and seek solutions,’ he directed.

‘Can’t you sense things using scanners? Another method must be found rather than thrusting hands inside; set up equipment where sensors sound if someone carries a stone,’ added Mr Mavunde.

The minister added further: ‘However, Mr Sebastian, you lot must also reduce tricks; that’s the truth. You have many ways of departing with these items; someone can conceal a stone without any trouble and walk normally, so you too should reduce tricks.’

In another development, Mr Mavunde inspected the construction of a market and bus stand in Katente Ward, Ushirombo Division, Bukombe District, directing the contractor executing these projects to complete them on schedule according to the contract to unlock economic opportunities for citizens.

According to a report presented by the Acting Director of Bukombe District Council, Mr Haruni Fashe, these projects cost over Sh22 billion and are expected to be completed in December 2027, with market construction currently at 46 percent complete.

Heroes who fought in the 1978/79 Kagera War against Uganda have revealed four secret factors behind their victory, while commandos explained how they crossed the Kagera River without a bridge.

Among the factors enabling their victory were public enthusiasm, adequate military training, high soldierly discipline, and the generous patriotic spirit displayed by Tanzanian citizens.

The veterans revealed their secret to victory on Saturday, July 25, 2026, during Heroes’ Day celebrations held at the Heroes’ Grounds inside the Government City in Mtumba, Dodoma.

Retired Brigadier General Wilfred Mwakalambile stated that immediately following the war declaration, citizens spontaneously and voluntarily began contributing towards combat costs, making the conflict far lighter to bear.

Brig Gen (rtd) Mwakalambile, amongst the first soldiers to cross the Kagera River, admitted that without this popular support, the war might have been tough despite being fully prepared.

‘When Mwalimu (Julius Nyerere) declared war while in Songea, my colleagues and I were picked up by aircraft in Zanzibar. Immediately, General Kiwelu (Tumainiel) ordered me to ensure commandos crossed to the other side so we could assess enemy strength, and I led my colleagues across,’ said Brig Gen Mwakalambile.

He stated that commandos crossed to evaluate enemy capability, whereupon artillery commenced firing while the engineering squad advanced to tackle constructing the Kagera River Bridge, which had been destroyed.

‘I urge youths to remain patriotic towards their nation and preserve this peace. Those in the military should receive adequate training for their country,’ he said.

For her part, the first woman heading to war, Retired Brigadier General Mary Hiki, stated that despite the tactics they possessed, Tanzanians’ morale especially inspired them.

Brig Gen (rtd) Hiki, who remained in Uganda after the war working as a State House communications officer, said credit belonged to citizen enthusiasm and contributions, while combatant discipline remained exceptionally high.

‘I was the sole woman heading to the battlefield; however, it was decided I return due to prevailing conditions. But after capturing Uganda’s capital, Kampala, I was recalled to Uganda, remaining there long-term,’ she said.

Like her fellow retiree, she emphasised the importance of modern training for defence forces to match contemporary requirements, while urging youths to answer the call to serve their country with zeal and discipline.

More than 20 members of the opposition party Chadema, have been arraigned before courts in different regions and charged with terrorism and economic sabotage offences.

Among those charged are four university students in Mbeya, several Chadema members in Mwanza and a lecturer from the University of Dodoma (Udom), who has also been charged with terrorism-related offences in Dodoma.

The four students, all facing non-bailable terrorism charges, are Noah Mwalwange, 23, a resident of Isange and a student at the Mbeya University of Science and Technology (Must); Gwamaka Mboka, 28; Rojazi Mpwani, 21; and Augustino Wasinyo, 25, all students at the Catholic University of Mbeya (CUoM).

The four appeared before Mbeya District Court Magistrate Paul Rupia on Thursday, July 23, 2026, where they were jointly charged with participating in terrorist activities.

The prosecution alleges that they committed the offence contrary to Sections 4(1), 4(2), 4(3)(c) and 31(d) of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (Chapter 19, Revised Edition 2023), read together with Paragraph 24 of the First Schedule and Sections 57(1) and 61(2) of the Economic and Organised Crime Control Act (Chapter 200, Revised Edition 2023).

According to the charge sheet, the alleged offence was committed on July 4, 2026, in the Mafiati area of Mbeya City.

The students are accused of encouraging members of the public in Mafiati to engage in terrorist acts involving extensive destruction of property with the intention of intimidating citizens of the United Republic of Tanzania.

In a separate case, Mr Jasiri Mwasumbi, 29, a resident of Kalombe and a driver by profession, was also arraigned before the same court, before Magistrate Tedy Mlimba, on the same charge of participating in terrorist activities.

Mr Mwasumbi is alleged to have committed the offence on July 5, 2026, in Kalombe, where prosecutors claim he mobilised people to carry out terrorist acts by encouraging attacks on police officers in Mbeya Region with the intention of causing death or serious injury to intimidate the public.

Defence lawyer Philipo Mwakilima told The Citizen’s sister newspaper Mwananchi that the four students and the driver were arraigned and formally charged in the evening after he had already left the court premises.

He said both cases have been adjourned to August 6, 2026, for mention.

Mwanza cases

In a separate development, 23 accused persons appeared before the Mwanza Resident Magistrate’s Court in two separate cases involving allegations of participating in meetings or discussions intended to facilitate terrorist activities.

Some of the accused are Chadema leaders. Their cases were read before Mwanza Resident Magistrate and Deputy Registrar Erick Marley.

In the first case, No. 16379/2026, 13 accused persons from Ilemela District are charged with committing the alleged offence between June 25 and July 7, 2026.

They are Alphaxadi Nyamwaga, Fantson Mpango, Abely Mwesa, Hassan Said, Emmanuel Wambura, Adam Idd, Damas Sadock, Petro Mabula, Abdul Kagwidi, Devid Mashaka, Philipo Masatu, Edward Mikindo and Emmanuel Doto.

The second case, No. 16375/2026, involves 10 accused persons from Nyamagana District, who are alleged to have held similar meetings between July 4 and July 7, 2026, in the Igoma area.

They are Deus Masalago, Mohamed Tosha, Fabian Nguvumali, Samweli Mtani, Samweli Kobell, Julius Makonga, Fanuel Lutana, Philipp Kulwa, Philipp Shipuluko and Hamis Mnyimvua.

According to the prosecution, the accused held the meetings with the intention of planning terrorist acts, including setting fire to government and privately owned buildings.

All the accused were remanded in custody because the Resident Magistrate’s Court lacks jurisdiction to hear terrorism cases.

Their matters have been scheduled for mention on August 6, 2026.

Speaking outside the court, defence lawyer Erick Mutta said the accused had been held in custody for nearly a month before being brought before the court on Thursday.

He said they were not granted bail because the court has no jurisdiction over terrorism cases and the offences are non-bailable.

According to Chadema Victoria Zone Secretary Zacharia Obadi, eight of the 23 accused are party leaders serving at branch and ward levels in Nyamagana and Ilemela districts.

Chadema’s Director of Legal Affairs and Human Rights, Mr Gaston Garubindi, said that, so far, 27 party leaders and members from Mwanza and Mbeya regions have been arraigned on terrorism-related charges.

“Although others continue to be held at police stations in Dar es Salaam, Iringa and Shinyanga, these 31 have already been brought before the courts and charged with terrorism offences,” he said.

“There are four being held in Dar es Salaam, three in Iringa and seven in Kishapu District, Shinyanga Region,” he added.

Mr Garubindi said the party’s legal team is continuing efforts to ensure that the detained leaders and members secure bail where legally possible.

Udom lecturer charged

In another development, University of Dodoma (Udom) lecturer Melkisedek Kaijage was arraigned before the Dodoma Resident Magistrate’s Court after being held in police custody in Dodoma Region for 15 days.

Mr Kaijage appeared in court on Thursday, July 23, 2026, before Resident Magistrate Zabibu Mpangule, where he was charged with economic sabotage and terrorism. The case was adjourned until August 5, 2026, for mention.

He was arrested on July 8, 2026, over allegations that he mobilised members of the public to participate in demonstrations that had been planned for July 7, 2026, during the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF), commonly known as Sabasaba.

On July 23, 2026, the lecturer, who had been detained at Chang’ombe Police Station in Dodoma, was brought before the court to answer the charges.

He is charged under Sections 4(1), 4(2)(a) and 4(3)(c) of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (Chapter 19, Revised Edition 2023), read together with Paragraph 24 of the First Schedule and Sections 57(1) and 61(2) of the Economic and Organised Crime Control Act (Chapter 200).

The prosecution alleges that on July 3, 2026, at the University of Dodoma, Mr Kaijage committed a terrorist act contrary to the laws of Tanzania.

According to the Republic, he threatened to set fire to public buildings and police residential houses within the United Republic of Tanzania with the intention of intimidating the public.

Mr Kaijage was not required to enter a plea. He remains in custody because the offences are non-bailable and the Resident Magistrate’s Court lacks jurisdiction to hear the case.

Tanzanian music heavyweights Marioo and Juma Jux are set to fly the country’s flag at the 2026 AFRIMMA Music Fest, scheduled for September 12 at Annette Strauss Square, AT and T Performing Arts Center in Dallas, Texas.

The two singers are among a lineup of African stars confirmed for the Pan-African festival, which will also feature Nigerian hitmakers BNXN and Ruger, alongside several other acts from across the continent.

The annual event celebrates African music and culture through live performances, food, fashion and cultural experiences, bringing together fans from Africa and the diaspora.

For Marioo and Jux, the festival comes at a pivotal moment in their careers. Both artistes are also in the running for Best Male Artist – East Africa at the 2026 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMMA), making the event an opportunity to not only entertain fans but also compete for one of African music’s top honours.

The 2026 AFRIMMA Awards will be held later the same day in Dallas, where winners across various categories will be announced.

With Tanzania enjoying a strong showing at this year’s awards, Marioo and Jux will be hoping to turn their performances into memorable moments and perhaps return home with coveted AFRIMMA trophies.