The High Court of Tanzania has ordered the release of Melkisedeki Kitunzi Kaijage, a University of Dodoma (UDOM) lecturer, on bail after 13 days in custody.The ruling came as investigations into sedition charges linked to the Sabasaba protests continue.Kaijage, an assistant lecturer in social sciences, was arrested on July 8, 2026, following a summons to report to police.He was detained without bail for 13 days, during which he was interrogated by officers from the Regional Crimes Officer (RCO).The court granted bail on July 21, 2026, after UDOMASA filed a petition.

The Sabasaba protests, banned by authorities, were called by activists demanding accountability for earlier election-related violence and political reform.Kaijage's case highlights ongoing tensions between academic freedom and state security.This is his second detention for similar charges, following a previous arrest in December 2025 over a lecture allegedly inciting protests.

The ruling underscores the judiciary's role in balancing legal proceedings with individual rights, while the government faces scrutiny over its handling of dissent and public demonstrations.