CATHERINE RUGE, The CHAUMMA (Chama Cha Ukombozi Wa Umma) Parliamentary Candidate For Serengeti Constituency In Mara Region, Has Alleged That Her Campaign Rallies Have Been Marred By Violence And Inadequate Police Protection.
Ruge Cited An Incident That Occurred On October 21, 2025, During A Campaign Meeting In Kyambahi Ward, Nyamumbu Village, Where She Said Her Event Was Disrupted By A Group Of Attackers In The Absence Of Police Officers. “I Have Reported This Several Times And Even Spoken Directly To The District Police Commander (OCD). Sometimes They Show Up, Other Times They Don’t. Out Of Four Scheduled Rallies, They May Attend One — Usually The Easiest To Access, While Avoiding Those In Riskier Areas,” She Explained.
Her Remarks Have Sparked Debate Over The Fairness And Safety Of Political Campaigns As The Election Season Intensifies Across Tanzania. CHAUMMA Officials Have Called For Equal Security Measures For All Candidates, Warning That Selective Enforcement Could Undermine Public Trust In The Democratic Process.
However, Mara Regional Police Commander (SACP) Pius Lutumo, In A Phone Interview With Jambo TV, Denied Receiving Any Official Complaints From The Candidate, Dismissing The Claims As “Political Propaganda” Typical Of The Campaign Period. The Police Have Maintained That All Candidates Are Entitled To Protection In Accordance With The Law.