‘Revolt Harmed Tanganyika’

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30348, 25 January 1964, Page 15

‘Revolt Harmed Tanganyika’

(N.Z. Press Association-Copyright) DAR-ES-SALAAM, January 23. Tanganyika’s progress has been damaged by the Army revolt this week, President Julius Nyerere said today.

“It would be foolish to pretend that these events are unimportant, or that they have not damaged Tanganyika’s reputation overseas,” he said. “We hope to restore confidence in our country and win back the reputation we had as a peaceful and mature nation.” The President was addressing bis first press conference since African troops of the Tanganyika Rifles mutinied on Monday for more' pay and quicker promotion. At least 17 died in subsequent rioting and looting. President Nyerere said he believed there was no connexion between the disturbances in Tanganyika and the revolution in Zanzibar 10 days earlier.

He said he recognised that tension had been heightened by the Government’s failure to keep people fully informed.

His own 48-hour silence during the revolt had been caused by his desire to make sure the situation was under control. “It was a mistake I fully acknowledge," he said.

The troops had genuine grievances. The lesson to be learned from the revolt—in this case a pay increase—did

not justify the means, he said. The restoration of confidence was especially urgent in that the country this year embarked on a five-year plan heavily dependent on overseas financial and technical help. TYie President abruptly brought the press conference to an end when he was asked if the mutineers would be punished. President Nyerere yesterday toured the slums and fashionable areas of Dar-es-Salaam, dispelling rumours that he was a virtual prisoner after the mutiny. Whenever he stopped his car and crowds gathered, President Nyerere told them the situation was back to normal and urged them to return to work. In spite of his broadcast the previous night, there had been concern that the President was not fully in command of the situation, and observers said the tour did much to discount these fears.