The opposition say more than 100 people were arrested but police say only 38 were detained

Tanzania’s opposition leader Freeman Mbowe has said the Chadema party will continue holding meetings calling for constitutional change despite police arresting its members.

Chadema said more than 100 people were arrested on Sunday, but police said only 38 were detained.

Mr Mbowe accused the police of giving “flimsy reasons” for the arrests, adding that it was meant to “intimidate the party”.

“We will not stop convening forums in line with the law. Let the police prepare to arrest and assault us because we won’t stop,” Mr Mbowe said.

Chadema is set to hold a series of meetings around the country, starting with one in the port city of Mwanza on Wednesday.

A push for a new constitution has gained momentum since President Samia Suluhu Hassan said last month that the process was not a priority as she was focussed on Tanzania’s economic development.