Opposition challenges president Magufuli to election debate ahead of October’s poll

Tanzania’s president, John Magufuli has been challenged to a televised debate by his rival Tundu Lissu, ahead of next month’s election.

President Magufuli is seeking a second five-year term amid concerns of increased repression of opposition parties.

Mr Magufuli has not yet responded to the challenge.

Mr Lissu, the leader of Chadema Party, said a televised debate of the presidential candidates will be healthy for the country’s democracy.

He told a campaign rally that president Magufuli should not be afraid of debating a person who has never been a president like him.