A Tanzanian university lecturer who was arrested over allegations of inciting anti-government protests has been charged with terrorism. Melkisedek Kaijage, who teaches political science and public administration at the University of Dodoma, was among more than 130 people arrested in the East African nation.
Charges Changed After 15 Days in Custody
Kaijage had appeared at a magistrate's court to request bail after spending 15 days in police custody. However, the charges against him were changed to terrorism offences, which generally are not eligible for bail. He will now remain in custody until his case goes to trial.
Terrorism Offences Carry Severe Penalties
Prosecutors accuse Kaijage of threatening to burn public buildings as part of intimidation tactics. Under Tanzanian law, offences such as recruiting for, facilitating, harbouring or supporting terrorists or terrorist groups carry severe penalties. Individuals convicted of these offences may face prison sentences ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment.
Colleagues Describe Kaijage as a Respected Lecturer
Gerald Shija, chairman of the University of Dodoma Academic Staff Association (Udomasa), said Kaijage had been transferred from police custody to Isanga Prison in the capital, Dodoma. Colleagues have described him as a respected lecturer whose popularity stems from his teaching rather than political activism.
Crackdown on Opposition Figures and Activists
Kaijage's case comes amid a broader crackdown by the authorities on opposition figures and activists critical of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Last month, the government suspended political rallies across the country until further notice, saying the move was necessary to maintain security. During the widespread protests that followed the results of the 29 October 2025 election, 518 people died from "unnatural causes", including 197 who were shot dead, according to a commission of inquiry established by President Samia.
President Samia Declared Winner with 98% of the Vote
The scale of the violence shocked a country that had cultivated an image of calm, consensus and stability for nearly six decades. President Samia was declared the winner of the poll with 98% of the vote, a result the opposition dismissed as a "mockery" of democracy after her two main challengers were excluded.
What Happens Next
Kaijage's case will now go to a higher court, where he will face trial for terrorism offences. His lawyers will likely argue that the charges against him are politically motivated and that he is being persecuted for his teaching and academic work. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched by human rights groups and observers who are concerned about the crackdown on opposition figures and activists in Tanzania.
Source: Joy Online
