DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania
Thousands of Tanzania's main opposition party supporters, flanked by a contingent of police officers, marched through the streets of Dar es Salaam today in a peaceful demonstration demanding new constitution, changes in electoral laws and regulations before upcoming elections.
The
opposition party, CHADEMA leaders are denouncing proposed electoral
bills, the high cost of living, and ongoing delays to constitutional
reforms.
Clad in their signature party colours the supporters kicked off their
march from Buguruni Filling Station to the United Nations Offices in the heart
of the city.
Their
message, echoed on placards carried by leaders, was clear and concise; withdraw
the controversial electoral bills, address the soaring cost of living, ensure
independent oversight of the 2024 local government elections and indulge in constitutional
reforms.
A crucial element of their demand was the call for a new constitution, crafted with the voices of the people heard and respected.
The
urgency of their plea was palpable, as they aimed their message not just at the
government but also at the international community represented by the United
Nations.
The
arrival of Chadema chairman Freeman Mbowe, accompanied by his three children,
added a personal touch to the demonstration.
Mbowe
emphasized the importance of dialogue alongside peaceful protest, stating,
"We haven't refused a roundtable discussion. Therefore, we want to talk
while demonstrating."
The
other demonstration route is led by the party’s vice – chairman, Tundu Lissu
who jetted in today from Ivory Coast to participate in the demonstration.
The
presence of police officers seemed to underscore the delicate balance between
upholding the right to protest and maintaining public order.
Godbless
Lema, addressing the crowd, acknowledged the cooperation of the police,
praising the maturity of the demonstrators.
However, Lema made it clear that the demonstration was not just about
Chadema, but about the future of Tanzania.
"We
are protesting for the next generation," he declared, his voice carrying
the weight of a cause bigger than any individual party.
With
chants of "Punguza gharama za maisha!" (Lower the cost of living!)
and "Haki ya katiba!" (Justice for the constitution!), the
demonstrators marched on, their message resonating through the streets of Dar
es Salaam.
Whether
their voices will reach the halls of power and effect change remains to be
seen, but one thing is certain: the spirit of peaceful protest and the demand
for a better future burned bright in the hearts of those who marched today.
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