'Road rage' death shocks Tanzania

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One of the Tanzanian president's key political allies has resigned after being charged with murder.

Senior ruling party official Ukiwaona Ditopile Mzuzuri is accused of shooting a bus driver dead in a row after refusing to get off the bus.

The regional commissioner - equivalent to a state governor - is now in prison awaiting trial at the high court.

President Jakaya Kikwete described the resignation as an honourable thing to do in a law-abiding nation.

The case is being referred to in the country as an extreme example of road rage.

In a letter, Mr Ditopile said that he would like to step down and let the law take its course.

He added that continuing to hold to his post while the case is in court would affect people's confidence in the government.

Tanzanians are watching the case closely to see if Mr Ditoplie receives any preferential treatment, says the BBC's Vicky Ntetema in Dar es Salaam.

The case is also prompting calls for a review of the law on possessing firearms.