AMERICAN and European Union (EU) embassies in Tanzania have strongly condemned the attack on Father Dr. Charles Kitima, the secretary general of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), calling for a swift and transparent investigation into the incident.

In joint statements released yesterday, the embassies expressed solidarity with Father Kitima and the public at large, demanding immediate action to bring those responsible for the attack to justice.

The US Embassy said the diplomatic mission “stands with Tanzanians from all political backgrounds in praying for his full recovery and strongly condemn all acts of violence, particularly those aimed at silencing calls for justice, reconciliation and human rights."

"We hope that Tanzania will use this moment to seek justice through a swift and transparent investigation," it submitted, while the EU statement expressed concern over the attack.

"It is deeply troubling that Father Charles Kitima, a respected advocate for civic education, interfaith dialogue and peaceful societal unity has been attacked. We reiterate our call for a thorough investigation into this assault," it stated.

The attack occurred at approximately 10pm on Thursday, when Father Kitima was ambushed by unknown assailants in the TEC Kurasini compound on the southerly reaches of the city centre in Dar es Salaam.

TEC, religious leaders, political parties and various human rights activists all condemned the attack and called for a prompt investigation. Many have emphasized the need for a transparent and impartial inquiry to ensure justice is served.

Activists see Father Kitima’s voice as one of the strongest in advocating for unity and human rights, with the vicious attack not just against him but against the values he represents.

No further updates were available from hospital sources after a number of local religious leaders spoke with the veteran academic and church administrator the morning after he was hospitalized.

The attack on Father Kitima has sparked outrage from all quarters of political activism, while voices from the side of the ruling party stressed police investigation and the judicial process while diplomats and other critics highlighted the concern for justice and transparency in sharper expression following the incident. Many of those who aired their views called for increased protection for religious leaders and human rights advocates in the country.