Tanzania's opposition leader attacked in his home months before election
Ambush took place months after Chadema party leader was charged with sedition, among other things

Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Tanzania's main opposition leader was attacked by unidentified assailants as he entered his home late at night, officials with his party said on Tuesday, just months ahead of a general election and as opposition figures face alleged harassment.
Freeman Mbowe, the leader of the opposition in parliament and chair of the Chadema party, was rushed to a health centre for treatment after he was attacked overnight in Dodoma, the administrative capital, Dodoma's regional police commander Gilles Murotto told reporters.
“Mbowe has a fracture on his right leg and according to the doctors his condition has stabilised,” Mr Murotto said, adding that the attack is under investigation.
A climate of fear has grown in the East African nation, rights groups and critics say, as president John Magufuli seeks a second term in the October election that shows no sign of being delayed despite the coronavirus pandemic.
Critics accuse Mr Magufuli's administration of curtailing freedom of assembly. Since 2016, opposition rallies across the country have been banned.
Earlier this year Mr Mbowe and eight others were sentenced to serve a five-month jail term or pay or fines for charges including conspiracy to commit offences, unlawful assembly, sedition and incitement.
Chadema secretary-general John Mnyika said the attack was reminiscent of one in 2017 when former opposition legislator Tundu Lissu was shot by unknown gunmen at his home in Dodoma. Mr Lissu was rushed to a Nairobi hospital before being transferred to Belgium for further treatment.
To date, no one has been arrested.
Mr Lissu has said he will challenge Mr Magufuli for the presidency in October. Mr Mbowe has not announced any such plans.
Associated Press
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments