Dar
es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Albert Chalamila. Photo: File
By Adonis Byemelwa
Dar
es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Albert Chalamila has slammed the shocking
assault on a young woman from Yombo, describing it as a severe breach of
Tanzanian law and morality. Chalamila, addressing the media on August 8, 2024,
assured that the victim is now in safe hands, receiving vital counseling and
support.
The
regional boss’ condemnation follows the viral spread of distressing footage on
social media, showing five men brutally assaulting and raping the young woman.
The attackers accused her of having an affair with a man identified as ‘afande,’
leading to their violent crime. The incident, which occurred on August 4, has
sparked widespread outrage and demands for accountability.
Human
rights advocates have called for urgent action against the perpetrators and
urged President Samia Suluhu Hassan to establish a commission to investigate
similar cases involving security forces. They seek a comprehensive review of
the conduct of law enforcement officials linked to such incidents.
Chalamila
firmly denounced the assault, emphasizing that it contradicts Tanzanian laws
and cultural values. "The young woman is secure and receiving the
necessary psychological care and support," Chalamila said. He also
criticized poor parental guidance as a factor contributing to such crimes,
urging Tanzanians to ensure their children are raised with respect for national
values and dignity.
As
the investigation unfolds, Chalamila urged the public to remain calm,
confirming that police are verifying the woman's identity and the crime scene.
"The police will confirm the woman's residence and the location of the
incident," he stated.
Michael
Marwa, Coordinator of the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC) for
the Eastern and Coast regions, has called on President Samia to form an
independent commission to probe these cases. He criticized the lack of an
independent body to address such issues, which tarnish the country’s image.
Marwa
also called for the arrest and prosecution of the offenders to serve as a
deterrent. Fauzia Lema of Wochaid Temeke urged the Minister of Community
Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, to ensure
the victim's safety and provide the necessary support.
Lema
also cautioned against spreading false information about the case, reminding
the public that such actions are illegal under Internet and privacy laws.
The
Tanzania Women Journalists Association (Tamwa) has urged increased efforts from
security forces to combat rising violence. "Tamwa condemns all forms of
abuse and continues to advocate against sexual violence," the organization
stated.
Boniface
Mwabukusi, President of the Tanganyika Law Society (TLS), and Anna Henga,
Director of the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), also called for decisive
legal action against the perpetrators.
Police
Spokesperson David Misime and Home Affairs Minister Hamad Masauni have assured
the public that the case is being handled with the utmost seriousness and that
justice will prevail. "We are leaving no stone unturned," Misime
declared, emphasizing that every effort is being made to ensure that those
responsible are held accountable.
Masauni
echoed this commitment, vowing that the full weight of the law would be
applied, promising swift and decisive action. "Rest assured, justice will
not just be done, it will be seen to be done," he asserted.