TEC refutes drinking claims as priest recovers from assault

The priest, who also suffered a deep wound to his chin, is currently recovering at Aga Khan Hospital in Dar es Salaam, where doctors report his condition is steadily improving.

According to police statements, the attack occurred at TEC’s Kurasini headquarters on Wednesday evening, shortly after a day-long interfaith meeting.

A report released by Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police suggests that Father Kitima had spent several hours at the canteen located within the premises, allegedly consuming drinks from around 7:00 pm to 10:15 pm, before being assaulted near a toilet block.

However, TEC leadership has disputed this version of events. Speaking to Mwananchi, Bishop Pisa said that Father Kitima was not drinking alcohol and that the location in question—a cafeteria within TEC’s compound—is not a bar, nor does it serve alcoholic beverages.

“That police statement misrepresents what really happened,” said Bishop Pisa. “The claim that he was drinking from 7 to 10 p.m. suggests something that isn’t true—it implies he was drinking alcohol, possibly intoxicated, and that’s misleading. He was simply working in a space he regularly uses after meetings.”

The Bishop, who also heads the Catholic Diocese of Lindi, explained that Father Kitima had remained behind to continue his work after the meeting concluded. As he stepped out to return indoors, he was attacked in a dimly lit corridor near the compound.

“This was a violent and targeted assault. He was ambushed and struck with a heavy object, not far from his usual work station. There is no justification in trying to shift focus by speculating about alcohol where none was involved,” Bishop Pisa added.

The police have since detained a suspect, identified as Rauli Mahabi, a resident of Kurasini, who is being questioned in connection with the attack. Authorities say investigations are ongoing and have pledged to take “swift and firm” action.

Meanwhile, TEC is preparing an official statement to provide clarity on the incident and address what it describes as “misleading narratives” that could unfairly damage Father Kitima’s reputation.

“It is important for the public to understand that the TEC compound does not have a bar. If anyone wishes to consume alcohol, they would have to leave the premises entirely,” Bishop Pisa said.

He emphasized the importance of responsible communication by both the media and law enforcement, noting that premature or speculative statements could lead to public misunderstanding and unjust character judgment.

The attack on Father Kitima has sparked concern among faith-based institutions and civil society organisations, many of whom are calling for transparency and accountability in the investigation. TEC has urged the public to await official findings as authorities continue their probe.

The news of Fr Dr Kitima’s assault has drawn criticism from various stakeholders, with ACT-Wazalendo’s former leader, Mr Zitto Kabwe, describing it as a barbaric act that should be condemned by all who value peace and stability in the nation.

“The attack on Fr Kitima at his residence, as reported, is not an ordinary crime,” said Mr Kabwe, calling on the Police Force (@tanpol) to conduct a swift investigation and release a report to the public.

“We expect the perpetrators to be quickly apprehended and brought to justice. This attack was reckless, inhumane, and malicious, with intent to harm the country,” he said, also expressing hopes for Fr Kitima’s speedy recovery.

Chadema’s Vice Chairman for the Mainland, Mr John Heche, expressed shock upon hearing of the attack, describing it as a tragic moment for the nation. \

He questioned how the country had reached such a point and warned that the audacity of the assault could be aimed at intimidating those who oppose oppression, injustice, and tyranny.

He strongly condemned the attack, calling for a united response from all segments of society, regardless of religious, ethnic, or political affiliation.

“This is a time to stand united against different forms of oppression as one nation and the people of God. May God heal you quickly, Fr Kitima,” he said in his message.

The Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) President, Mr Boniface Mwabukusi, shared his visit to Fr Kitima, acknowledging the severity of the attack, which appeared to have been intended to take his life.

However, Mr Mwabukusi reassured the public that Fr Kitima was recovering well.

“Fr Kitima’s message to the nation was one of resolve: We must stand firm in defending the fundamental issues of the nation. We must not fear paying the price for defending our rights and responsibilities. Everyone will pay the price in their own way, and we must be ready. When we speak out on issues that need correction, especially regarding ensuring fair elections, we should not fear the consequences,” he said.

An assistant lecturer in political science and public administration at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the Open University of Tanzania (OUT), Mr Recocatus Kabobe, described the attack as another criminal act, similar to others that have targeted citizens in the past.

“There must be a thorough investigation to determine the intent behind the assault,” he said.

He stressed that security agencies must act decisively to prevent such crimes, which instill fear not only in Fr Kitima but in the wider public.

Addition report by Rosemary Mirondo