Tanzania accused of silencing critics over port deal with Dubai

Tanzania accused of silencing critics over port deal with Dubai

At least 22 people have been threatened or detained for criticising a deal between Tanzania and Dubai that covers the management of a Tanzanian port by Emirati logistics company DP World, according to Human Rights Watch.

“The Tanzanian government’s suppression of its critics is a troubling sign of its low tolerance for dissenting views,” researcher Oryem Nyeko said of the official response to those voicing concerns about an intergovernmental agreement signed last year and ratified by Tanzania’s parliament in June.

“The government should respect the right to freedom of expression and assembly,” he added.

Rugemeleza Nshala, a lawyer and activist, said he was forced to flee Tanzania after being summoned for questioning, adding that he was threatened over his views on the deal that, according to the agreement, provides a legal framework for “developing, improving, managing and operating the sea and lake ports in areas like special economic zones, logistic parks and trade corridors”.

Boniface Mwabukusi, another lawyer, was arrested after holding a news conference about the agreement.

The government said DP World, which operates several ports in east Africa, would help improve efficiency and triple revenue at Dar es Salaam port, a crucial gateway to Tanzania and to landlocked neighbours such as Uganda and