```html Mother's Plea After Tanzanian Ex-Diplomat Vanishes Amid Political Tensions

The mother of Humphrey Polepole, a former Tanzanian ambassador to Cuba and vocal government critic, has issued an impassioned plea for his safe return after he was reportedly abducted from his home in Dar es Salaam. Annamary Polepole, in an interview with the BBC, begged authorities to locate her son, stating, "If he is alive, return him to me. If he is not, bring his body and let me bury my child myself. They should not go and throw him into the sea."

Humphrey Polepole's disappearance on Monday has heightened political tensions in Tanzania, weeks before the general election scheduled for October 29th. Local police have confirmed they are investigating the incident, which his brother, Godfrey, reported involved a broken door and significant blood at the scene.

Police Investigation and Conflicting Accounts

Initial skepticism from Dar es Salaam's police chief, Jumanne Muliro, who questioned Polepole's presence in the country, has drawn criticism. Muliro had stated the former ambassador "often claimed to be out of the country," casting doubt on the abduction report. This statement has fueled concerns about the impartiality of the investigation.

Police have also stated that they are seeking another brother of the ex-diplomat, Augustino, to provide clarification regarding allegations he reportedly made on social media claiming a police officer was involved in the abduction.

Polepole's Criticism and Subsequent Dismissal

Humphrey Polepole resigned from his diplomatic post earlier this year, citing his inability to support a government he believed disrespected justice, the rule of law, and constitutional principles. He was later formally stripped of his diplomatic status by President Samia Suluhu Hassan. His public criticism of the government, particularly regarding the nomination process for the governing CCM party's presidential candidate, is believed by some to be linked to his disappearance.

Expert Perspective: Eroding Democratic Space

Dr. Rose Mbowa, a political analyst at the University of Dar es Salaam, notes that Polepole's case reflects a worrying trend. "There is a growing concern about the shrinking space for dissent in Tanzania," she states. "While President Samia initially signaled a move towards greater political freedom, recent actions suggest a return to a more authoritarian approach. The disappearance of a prominent critic like Polepole sends a chilling message."

Historical Context and Current Political Climate

Tanzania, under its founding father Julius Nyerere, was known for its relative stability and socialist policies. However, in recent years, concerns have grown regarding human rights and political freedoms. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who assumed office in 2021 following the death of John Magufuli, initially promised reforms. However, critics argue that these reforms have stalled, with a crackdown on opposition parties and civil society groups intensifying. Polepole himself had alleged corruption and misuse of public funds within government institutions.

President Samia is running for a second term in the upcoming election. She initially received praise for offering greater political freedom. However, she has faced criticism for a crackdown on political parties and civil society.

Family's Anguish and Public Reaction

Annamary Polepole expressed deep sorrow over her son's disappearance and the reported abduction of her daughter in July, fearing for the future of Tanzania. "They are hurting people as if they were hurting buffaloes or elephants," she lamented, invoking the legacy of Nyerere. "It is very sad for our country. [The] founding father of the nation Mwalimu [Julius] Nyerere never raised us that way."

While some Tanzanians have praised Polepole's courage in speaking out against the government, others have questioned his moral authority, given his previous role within the administration. His mother, however, insists on his integrity. "He was a person full of great love - no matter if he didn't know you, he would greet you kindly, full of warmth and affection."

Analytical Viewpoint: The Impact on Elections

According to Nic Cheeseman, Professor of Democracy at the University of Birmingham, Polepole's abduction could significantly impact the upcoming elections. "This incident will likely further erode public trust in the electoral process and raise concerns about the fairness of the upcoming vote," Cheeseman explains. "It also highlights the challenges faced by individuals who dare to challenge the ruling party's narrative." ```