Dar es Salaam, 7 October 2025 — Tanzania’s police force has launched an investigation into reports that Humphrey Polepole, a former ambassador and outspoken government critic, was abducted from his home in the early hours of Monday.
The Incident
Polepole’s family reported that unidentified individuals forcibly entered his residence in Dar es Salaam, breaking doors and leaving visible bloodstains before allegedly taking him away. His brother, Godfrey Polepole, told local media that the scene suggested a violent struggle.
Police Response
Police spokesperson David Misime confirmed that authorities were examining the claims circulating on social media and through relatives.
“The Police Force has seen the reports being circulated by his relatives that he has been kidnapped. We have already begun working to ascertain the truth,” Misime said in a statement.
Officials also noted that Polepole had recently been summoned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to answer questions about allegations he made against the government on social media, but had not complied.
Political Context
Polepole resigned as Tanzania’s ambassador to Cuba in July, later emerging as a vocal critic of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party and President Samia Suluhu Hassan. He has accused the government of corruption, constitutional violations, and targeting dissenters.
His disappearance comes amid heightened political tension ahead of the October 29 general election, with opposition groups alleging a pattern of abductions and intimidation of government critics. Human rights organizations have also raised concerns over shrinking civic space in the country.
Outlook
As investigations continue, the reported abduction has intensified scrutiny of Tanzania’s human rights record and raised questions about the safety of political opponents and civil society figures. ODIHR and other international observers have urged authorities to ensure transparency and accountability in handling the case.
