When president Samia Suluhu Hassan came into power in 2021 she lifted a ban on political rallies imposed by her predecessor the late John Magufuli, and promised the 4 Rs: reconciliation, resilience, reforms and rebuilding.
But now, as the country heads towards elections - this year and next - fear is growing.
Just under 3 weeks ago, an opposition official Ali Kibao, was abducted, killed and his body doused in acid. A number of other activists have disappeared. And the two most senior opposition leaders have been arrested – twice – on the eve of planned protests.
For today’s Africa Daily podcast, Alan Kasujja speaks to one of them, Freeman Mbowe, leader of the main opposition party CHADEMA.
He also speaks to former BBC journalist Salim Kikeke for context of what has been happening in the country.