A Tanzanian university lecturer arrested over alleged efforts to mobilise anti-government protests has been charged with terrorism, escalating a case that has drawn concern over the country’s widening crackdown on dissent.
Melkisedek Kaijage, a political science and public administration lecturer at the University of Dodoma, had appeared before a magistrate’s court seeking bail after spending 15 days in police custody when prosecutors introduced the new charge.
Kaijage was among more than 130 people detained in connection with nationwide demonstrations planned for July 7. The protests, which were banned and ultimately did not take place, were intended to demand democratic reforms and accountability for those killed during unrest following last year’s disputed election.
The terrorism charge means Kaijage is expected to remain in custody, as such offences are generally not eligible for bail under Tanzanian law.
He was not required to enter a plea during Thursday’s hearing because terrorism cases can only be tried by a higher court.
Kaijage was arrested on July 8, one day after the planned demonstrations, and was initially accused of inciting people to participate in the protests.
Authorities had deployed security forces across major cities ahead of the planned action and warned that anyone accused of encouraging unrest would face legal action.
Prosecutors now allege that Kaijage threatened to burn public buildings as part of an intimidation campaign.
Tanzanian anti-terrorism legislation imposes heavy penalties for offences including recruiting, assisting, sheltering or providing support to terrorists or terrorist organisations. Convictions can carry prison sentences ranging from 10 years to life.
Gerald Shija, chairman of the University of Dodoma Academic Staff Association, said Kaijage had been transferred from police custody to Isanga Prison in Dodoma.
His colleagues have described him as a respected academic whose public profile is largely based on his teaching rather than political activism.
The case comes amid growing pressure on opposition leaders, activists and other critics of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government.
The authorities suspended political rallies nationwide last month, saying the measure was necessary to preserve public order and national security.
Tanzania has faced heightened political tensions since the October 29, 2025 presidential election and the violent protests that followed.
A presidential commission of inquiry said 518 people died from what it described as “unnatural causes” during the unrest, including 197 who were shot.
The violence shocked Tanzania, which had long projected an image of political stability and consensus.
President Samia was declared the winner of the election with 98% of the vote. Opposition parties rejected the result as undemocratic after her two leading challengers were barred from standing.
Samia has maintained that the election was free and transparent. She also blamed foreign actors for the unrest, alleging that the violence formed part of an attempt to remove her government.