Evening attack
The assault occurred on the evening of April 30 within the premises of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference in Dar es Salaam. Fr. Charles Kitima, after a meeting with other religious leaders, went to the canteen located within the secretariat’s premises. Around 10:00 PM, he was attacked in the bathroom by two unknown assailants using a blunt object. The clergyman, with serious injuries, was admitted to Aga Khan Hospital. Police arrested one person suspected of the attack, but doubts are emerging regarding the lack of transparency in the authorities’ actions.
Statement from the Episcopate
In a released statement, Tanzanian bishops strongly condemned the assault on Fr. Kitima. They also thanked the medical services for their immediate response. The Tanzania Episcopal Conference also rejected public suggestions that Fr. Kitima was in a place serving alcohol at the time of the attack. The Chairman of the Episcopate, Bishop Wolfgang Pisa, stated that the incident took place in a restaurant within the complex, not in a bar.
Conflict with authorities escalates
The assault on the priest occurred amidst growing tension between the Church and the state, led by President Samia Suluhu. Fr. Charles Kitima, known for his criticism of the authorities and defense of human rights, recently stated: “No one will silence the Church.” Tanzanian bishops have for years opposed the government’s authoritarian tendencies, repeatedly advocating for justice and free elections. The main opposition party, CHADEMA, has already announced a boycott of the voting scheduled for October. In early April, its leader Tundu Lissu was arrested and excluded from the elections.
Interreligious solidarity
Representatives of other communities also spoke out. “This is shocking and unacceptable. We call on the authorities to act. We call on the authorities to investigate the matter and take appropriate legal steps,” said Sheikh Nuhu Mruma of the Muslim Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA). Pastor Moses Matonya of the Christian Council of Churches assessed that the assault on Fr. Kitima tarnished the country’s image. “This is a crucial time for our nation, and citizens must be able to express their opinions without fear,” he added.
