Citing “the deterioration of the human rights and rule of law situation” in Tanzania, the European Union has recalled its ambassador to this East African country.
A statement emailed to The Associated Press (AP) on November 5 said the EU will be conducting a broad review of its relations with Tanzania.
The statement does not cite specific issues, but there are fears of an impending crackdown against homosexuals after Dar es Salaam Commissioner Paul Makonda urged Tanzanians to spy on suspected gays and lesbians and to report their activities.
As reported by AP, Tanzania’s government has since issued a statement saying Makonda stated his opinion and does not speak for the administration.
However, Makonda told a news conference last week that he aims to eradicate homosexuality and prostitution in Tanzania. The public had already sent police the names of more than 200 suspected homosexuals, he said.
Homosexuality is criminalised in Tanzania and as well as many other African countries where it often seen as being imported from the West.
