The Commonwealth has issued a strong warning to the government of Tanzania, saying the country must address growing concerns over human rights violations if it wants to continue enjoying full benefits and cooperation from the organisation.
The concerns include reports of restrictions on freedom of expression, arrests of opposition members, pressure on the media, and increasing limits on civic and political spaces. Human rights groups have also raised alarms about cases of unlawful detentions and harassment of activists.
According to officials, the Commonwealth Secretariat has outlined several conditions that Tanzania must meet. These include:
Protecting freedom of speech and the press
Ensuring the safety and rights of political opposition members
Allowing civil society organisations to operate freely
Strengthening the independence of the judiciary
Investigating reports of abuses and bringing those responsible to justice
The organisation said these steps are necessary to maintain democratic values, which all Commonwealth member states are expected to uphold.
Tanzania has faced increasing international pressure in recent months. Global rights organisations and foreign governments have expressed concern over what they describe as a shrinking democratic space ahead of future elections. Some partners have warned that continued violations could affect aid, trade, and diplomatic relations.
In response, Tanzanian authorities claim they remain committed to democracy and the rule of law. Government spokespersons have said that some of the reports are exaggerated, but they affirmed that the country is open to working with international partners to improve governance.
The Commonwealth added that it will continue monitoring the situation closely. If Tanzania takes concrete steps to address the issues, the organisation says it will maintain strong cooperation and support the country’s development goals.
The situation has sparked public debate in Tanzania, with many citizens urging the government to act quickly and avoid isolation from the international community.
