Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), has sounded the alarm over the deteriorating health of its Vice Chairman, Hon. John Heche, who remains in police custody at the Mtumba Police Station in Dodoma.

According to an official statement issued by the party’s Directorate of Communication and Publicity, Heche has been unwell since his detention and has reportedly gone three days without food, suffering from severe chest pain, high fever, and body weakness that have left him unable to stand.

CHADEMA’s Director of Communication, Brenda Rúpia, expressed grave concern over Heche’s condition and urged the Tanzanian Police Force to act swiftly and humanely by transferring him to a hospital for urgent medical attention.

“We call upon the Police Force to take immediate humanitarian action to ensure Hon. Heche receives proper medical treatment. The right to health and life is fundamental and must be safeguarded, especially when an individual is in the custody of security organs,” said Rúpia.

The party emphasized that the state bears full responsibility for Heche’s wellbeing, warning that failure to provide timely treatment could amount to negligence and a violation of basic human rights.

Heche’s detention has sparked growing outrage among opposition supporters and human rights observers, who accuse authorities of using health neglect as a form of political intimidation.

As of Thursday evening, no official response had been issued by the Tanzania Police Force regarding CHADEMA’s plea.

CHADEMA Vice Chairman John Heche Falls Ill in Police Custody; Party Demands Immediate Medical Attention