Chadema, police probe reported abduction of activist Mdude Nyagali

The alleged incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of government critics and the apparent rise in the use of excessive force.

Speaking to The Citizen’s sister newspaper, Mwananchi, on Friday, May 2, 2025, Chadema’s Mbeya Regional Secretary, Mr Hamad Mbeyale, confirmed receiving reports of the incident and said the party was investigating.

“The party is following up. We will issue an official statement once we have verified the facts surrounding the incident,” said Mr Mbeyale.

The police have also responded, with Mbeya Regional Police Commander Benjamin Kuzaga stating that the Force had become aware of the matter and required time to investigate.

“It is not possible to respond immediately to claims circulated on social media without verifying the facts. And if it’s alleged that police were involved, the question remains—from which unit? We need reliable information,” said Mr Kuzaga.

Before the incident, Mr Nyagali posted on social media claiming that police officers were searching for his residence.

He stated that if there were any legal concerns, they could have contacted him directly through the phone numbers available at the offices of the Regional Police Commander (RPC) and the Regional Crime Officer (RCO).

The Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) has also commented, with its President, Advocate Boniface Mwambukusi, writing on social media that he had received credible information indicating that police officers had forcibly entered Mr Nyagali’s residence, assaulted him, and taken him into custody.

“This is part of a troubling pattern in which perceived critics of the government face unlawful violence,” writes Mr Mwambukusi.

“We urge the Mbeya Regional Police to ensure that Mdude Nyagali is safe and receives proper medical treatment,” he adds.

Advocate Mwambukusi said the legal community and human rights defenders would continue monitoring the situation to ensure that justice is done.