Commonwealth Special Envoy Arrives in Tanzania Amid Divided Opinion on Reconciliation Efforts
Dar es Salaam. Political analysts and diplomats remain divided over the arrival of former Malawian President Dr Lazarus Chakwera, appointed by the Commonwealth as Special Envoy to Tanzania to support reconciliation efforts.
While some have welcomed the initiative, others have criticised the timing, arguing that the current crisis remains under local jurisdiction.
Dar es Salaam-based lawyer Dr Onesmo Kyauke described the move as a crucial step in easing the country’s political tensions.
He noted that the Commonwealth has the authority to intervene in political disputes among member states and pointed to its mediation during Zanzibar’s 2000 election crisis as a positive example.
"Dr Chakwera should focus on identifying the root causes and parties involved to facilitate dialogue and solutions. They are mediators, not intruding on our sovereignty," Dr Kyauke said, emphasising that the envoy’s role is supportive rather than interventionist.
In contrast, diplomat Dr Benson Bana questioned the necessity of the visit, arguing that the unrest remains within the remit of national institutions.
"Our institutions and regional bodies such as the EAC, SADC, and AU are capable. It is too early for the Commonwealth to intervene," he said.
Dr Bana added that an independent commission set up by President Samia Suluhu Hassan is already investigating the violence during protests on 29 and 30 October, which left several dead and caused substantial property and infrastructure damage.
Dr Chakwera is expected in Tanzania today, 18 November, for a four-day visit. He will hold discussions with government officials, political leaders, civil society representatives, religious and traditional authorities, as well as national and international stakeholders.
The aim is to foster inclusive dialogue on reconciliation, democratic space, and political rights. He will be accompanied by Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General Professor Luis Franceschi.
The Commonwealth, an association of independent nations formerly under British rule, has frequently played a mediatory role in member states during political crises.
Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said Dr Chakwera’s experience will be critical in supporting constructive dialogue and promoting peace and stability.
Accepting the appointment, Dr Chakwera said: "As a neighbour, I have closely followed Tanzania’s political situation and am ready to support the dialogue process." This is not the Commonwealth’s first mediation in Tanzania.
In 1995, Chief Emeka Anyaoku appointed Dr Moses Anafu to mediate between CUF and CCM in Zanzibar, resulting in the first agreement that addressed electoral reforms, constitutional amendments, and compensation for victims of political unrest.
In her November 14 parliamentary address, President Hassan expressed sorrow over the recent violence and called on all stakeholders to support reconciliation efforts.
