Tanzania‘s Samia Suluhu Hassan Declared Winner Amidst Violent Unrest and Opposition Rejection
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – President Samia Suluhu Hassan has secured a second term in office following Wednesday’s presidential election, but the victory is marred by widespread unrest, a contested outcome, and a severe lack of transparency. Official results announced Saturday show Hassan winning with an overwhelming 98% of the vote, a figure instantly rejected by opposition parties who claim the election was a “mockery of the democratic process.”
The declaration of Hassan’s win comes as Tanzania grapples with days of violent protests, fueled by accusations of electoral fraud and the suppression of opposition leaders. Reports indicate hundreds have been killed or injured, though verifying the exact toll is hampered by a nationwide internet shutdown imposed by the government.
“We thank the security forces for ensuring that the violence did not stop voting,” Hassan stated in her victory speech, dismissing the protests as “unpatriotic” and condemning the incidents. Electoral Commission Chief Jacobs Mwambegele confirmed Hassan secured approximately 31.9 million votes, representing 97.66% of the nearly 37.6 million registered voters, with a turnout approaching 87%.
Opposition Cries Foul,International Concerns Mount
The election’s legitimacy is deeply questioned by opposition parties. Key challengers to Hassan were either imprisoned or barred from running, effectively silencing meaningful competition. Chadema party spokesperson claimed “around 700” people have died in clashes with security forces, a figure corroborated by a diplomatic source who told the BBC there is evidence of at least 500 fatalities. The government, though, downplays the scale of the violence, describing it as “isolated incidents.”
International observers have echoed concerns about the lack of transparency throughout the electoral process and the escalating violence. The ongoing internet blackout further exacerbates these concerns, hindering independent verification of events on the ground.
Zanzibar Election Also Contested
in the semi-autonomous archipelago of zanzibar, incumbent President Hussein Mwinyi of the ruling CCM party won with nearly 80% of the vote. However,the opposition in Zanzibar has alleged “massive fraud,” mirroring the claims made on the mainland. Mwinyi’s swearing-in ceremony is currently underway in Zanzibar, despite the tense atmosphere.
Security Tightened, Tensions Remain High
While no protests were reported Saturday morning, a heavy security presence remains in Dar es Salaam and other cities. Roadblocks manned by security forces are a visible reminder of the ongoing unrest. Demonstrations on Friday saw protesters tearing down President Hassan’s posters and clashing with police and attacking polling stations, despite warnings from the army chief. The protests are largely driven by young people who accuse the government of undermining democracy by suppressing opposition voices.
The situation remains volatile as Tanzania enters a new presidential term under a cloud of controversy and violence. World-Today-News.com will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as they become available,navigating the challenges posed by the ongoing information blackout.
Keywords: Tanzania,Samia Suluhu Hassan,Presidential Election,Unrest,Protests,Opposition,Democracy,internet Shutdown,Zanzibar,Election Fraud,Violence,Human Rights,Africa News.
