The Tanzania Police Force has summoned politician Hilda Newton to report to the Office of the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Dar es Salaam on April 24, 2026, to present evidence related to claims she shared on social media alleging that there were plans to assassinate CHADEMA Chairman, Tundu Lissu.
According to a statement issued on April 22, 2026, the Police Force said the summons follows ongoing investigations into information posted by Newton on April 10, 2026.
In her post, she alleged that the government had planned to kill the opposition leader by shooting, a claim that attracted public attention and debate.
The police said Newton had indicated that she possessed evidence supporting her allegations. For that reason, investigators have requested her to appear before the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and submit any information she has to assist in the ongoing inquiry.
“To complete the investigation, Hilda Newton is directed to report to the Office of the Director of Criminal Investigations located at the Police Headquarters Annex on Ohio Street in Dar es Salaam on April 24, 2026, at 4:00 a.m. to present the evidence she publicly claimed to have,” read part of the statement.
The directive is issued under Section 11(2) of the Criminal Procedure Act as amended in 2023.
The Police Force emphasized that the investigation is being conducted in line with the law, which allows authorities to call any person who may have relevant information in a criminal matter.
It added that the process is aimed at establishing the truth behind the allegations and ensuring that facts are properly verified.
Authorities further noted that investigations are still ongoing and no conclusions have been made regarding the claims.
They urged the public to remain calm and allow legal procedures to take their course as relevant institutions continue to handle the matter.
The development comes at a time when authorities continue to caution against the spread of unverified information on social media, stressing the importance of responsible communication to prevent unnecessary public concern and maintain stability.
