Police in Mbeya Region have detained two opposition leaders from Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema) over allegations of mobilising members of the public to participate in an unlawful political gathering.
Those arrested are the party’s Mbeya Regional Chairman, Mr Masaga Pius Kaloli, and the regional chairman of the youth wing, BAVICHA, Mr Elisha Chonya.
The two were detained on Wednesday afternoon in Inyala Village and Ward after police received information that they were organising and encouraging people to assemble for a political meeting without following the required legal procedures.
Police authorities indicated that the suspects were found making preparations and mobilising residents to attend a meeting that had not received legal clearance, in violation of laws governing public assemblies.
The Mbeya Regional Police Command further noted that Chadema is currently subject to a court order restricting the party from conducting political activities, making any mobilisation or meeting unlawful during the period of restriction.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with police indicating that further legal action will be taken upon completion of the inquiry.
The development comes as law enforcement agencies continue to enforce regulations governing public order and political activities, amid calls for all political actors to adhere strictly to existing legal frameworks.