CHADEMA Deputy Chairperson John Heche
By Njoroge David
Tanzania’s main opposition party Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA) says its Deputy Chairperson John Heche has fallen seriously ill while in police custody in Dodoma, urging authorities to move him to hospital for immediate treatment.
The party said Heche, who is being held at Mtumba Police Station, has gone three days without food and is suffering from chest pain, fever, and physical weakness.
“Heche has not eaten for three days and is struggling with sharp chest pains, fever, and physical weakness,” said Brenda Rúpia, CHADEMA’s Director of Communications and Publicity.
Rúpia urged the police to act quickly and humanely by transferring Heche to hospital, warning that his condition was worsening.
“The right to health and life must be protected, especially when someone is under the custody of security agencies,” said Rúpia.
Police in Dodoma had not responded to calls seeking comment by Friday evening. The party did not disclose the reason for Heche’s detention.
Heche, a former member of parliament for Tarime Rural, was arrested earlier this month as opposition figures faced increased police scrutiny during election week.
Tanzania held general elections on Wednesday, October 29, amid tight security and rising political tension.
The vote, President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s first full-term bid since succeeding the late John Magufuli in 2021, has drawn criticism from opposition groups and rights advocates who accuse the government of restricting political space.
CHADEMA, the country’s main opposition party, was barred from the ballot earlier this year after refusing to sign the electoral code of conduct, calling the process unfair.
Its leader, Tundu Lissu, is facing treason charges, while several senior members have been arrested or reported missing in recent weeks.
Sporadic protests erupted in parts of Dar es Salaam and Mwanza as polls opened, with reports of internet slowdowns and heavy police presence across major towns.
