By Adonis Byemelwa
Songwe, Tanzania –
The mysterious death of Daudi Kwibuja, a pharmacist at the Isansa Health Center
in Mbozi, has taken a dramatic turn with new revelations from social media
implicating several high-profile individuals. Kwibuja's body, discovered on the
side of the Tunduma-Mbeya Road in Mlowo on July 3, 2024, was covered in
injuries, indicating foul play.
Regional Police Commander SACP
Agustino Senga stated that preliminary investigations indicate Kwibuja was
murdered on the night of July 3, with his body discovered the following
morning.
Initially thought to be a car
accident, further examination revealed injuries inconsistent with such an
incident, prompting a deeper investigation. “When the investigation confirms he
was murdered, the Police Force will ensure those responsible are brought to
justice,” Senga assured.
Speaking to reporters on July 6,
2024, Commander Senga disclosed that while several individuals had been
summoned and questioned, no arrests had been made. He emphasized the importance
of thorough investigation over speculation fueled by social media and street
gossip. “No one is detained yet. We’ve questioned some people and released
them.
There are numerous rumors,
including the involvement of a bodaboda driver and his wife, but we cannot act
on the street or online chatter,” Senga stated. “Our priority is a meticulous
investigation to ascertain the truth and take appropriate action. We urge the
public to cooperate, especially as the deceased was last seen at a bar called
Kona ya Mkoa.”
Online reports allege a theft
ring involving human medicines sent by the government to dispensaries and
health centers in Songwe, particularly in Mbozi.
Last year, a consignment was reportedly seized
at one dispensary, leading to an investigation where Kwibuja was required to
report to the police. The medicines were allegedly handed over to other
parties, compromising evidence, but Kwibuja remained in custody.
Although he was suspended along with a
colleague, Kwibuja pursued his rights and was reinstated on June 7, 2024, to
the Isansa Health Center. Despite his reinstatement, he allegedly vowed to
continue exposing the theft, leading to his mysterious death after leaving the
bar on July 3.
When asked about the social
media claims, Commander Senga stated he had not received such information. Dr.
Alex Magelu, the Chief Medical Officer of Mbozi, named in the online reports,
denied any knowledge of the incident, referring inquiries to the district
director. Attempts to contact Mbozi District Director Abdallah Nandonde were
unsuccessful as his phone went unanswered.
Kwibuja’s murder is the latest
in a series of mysterious killings and abductions that have plagued Tanzania in
recent years. These incidents often involve individuals with connections to
corruption or criminal investigations, raising concerns about systemic issues
within the country’s governance and law enforcement.
In 2018, the disappearance of
journalist Azory Gwanda, who was investigating a string of murders in Rufiji,
remains unsolved, highlighting the dangers faced by those who challenge
powerful networks. Similarly, the abduction of businessman Mohammed Dewji in
2019, despite his eventual release, pointed to high-stakes conflicts within
Tanzania’s elite circles.
These cases highlight the urgent
need for robust investigative mechanisms and the protection of individuals
exposing corruption. The lack of accountability and transparency fosters an
environment where powerful actors can operate with impunity, perpetuating a
cycle of violence and intimidation. As the investigation into Kwibuja’s death
continues, the authorities must deliver justice and address the underlying
issues that contribute to such heinous acts.
The outcome of this case could
signal a turning point in Tanzania’s fight against corruption and the
protection of those who dare to unveil the truth. The public awaits the
findings with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that not only brings
justice for Kwibuja but also strengthens the integrity of Tanzania’s
institutions.