Chadema Vice Chairman (Mainland), John Heche, with supporters during a public rally in Dodoma. PHOTO | COURTESY
Dodoma. Three Chadema leaders in Dodoma Urban District are being held by police for allegedly failing to prevent their supporters from dispersing into the streets and chanting songs critical of the ruling party, CCM, following a public rally addressed by Chadema deputy chairperson John Heche on June 8, 2025.
The rally was held at Mtekelezo Grounds after the organisers obtained the necessary permit.
Dodoma Urban District Commissioner Jabir Shekimweri said he was not aware of the arrests and referred inquiries to the Dodoma Regional Police Commander.
Attempts to reach Commander George Katabazi were unsuccessful.
His mobile phone was answered by someone who identified himself as an assistant and said the commander was in a meeting.
Speaking to The Citizen on Wednesday, Chadema’s Dodoma regional chairperson, Mr Manyama Marambaya, confirmed that the three officials were summoned on Tuesday, June 10, for questioning over the incident.
He said they were later detained at the central police station, where they remain in custody.
“They responded to the police summons but were immediately detained. When we followed up, we were told to return at 5pm to speak with the regional commander,” he said.
The detained officials are: Dodoma Urban District chairperson Stephen Karashan, secretary Azizi Abbas, and publicity secretary William Keiya.
Mr Marambaya said the police questioned why the leaders failed to control the supporters after the rally, to which the leaders responded that the crowd had overwhelmed them.
Police reportedly responded that it was the leaders’ responsibility to maintain order.
Chadema officials say they are continuing to follow up on the matter, including efforts to secure bail for the detained leaders.
