Tanzania Deploys Military Amidst Protests Challenging Presidential Election Results
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – The Tanzanian government has deployed the military and imposed a curfew in the commercial capital, Dar es salaam, following protests that erupted Wednesday after presidential elections. Initial results announced Thursday by the electoral body show President Samia Suluhu Hassan leading with 96.99% of the votes tallied in 8 out of 272 constituencies.At least two people – a civilian and a police officer – have died in the unrest, according to Amnesty International, though the government has yet to comment on casualties.
The protests, which included the burning of a bus and a gas station, attacks on police stations, and vandalism of polling centers, underscore growing discontent with the election process. Turnout was reported as low. The opposition has faced meaningful hurdles, with main opposition leader Tundu Lissu remaining in prison on treason charges related to calls for electoral reforms, and presidential candidate Luhaga mpina barred from running.
Roadblocks manned by the army have been erected nationwide, restricting movement to essential workers. Hundreds of protesters attempted to reach the country’s main airport but were prevented from entering. Ferry services to the semiautonomous archipelago of Zanzibar, where results are expected Thursday, have been suspended. Amnesty International has called for investigations into the use of force against protesters, citing injuries reported in Namanga, a border town with Kenya, where police used tear gas to disperse demonstrators. Business operations in Namanga have reportedly halted.Public servants have been instructed to work from home Thursday to limit nonessential travel.
President Hassan faced 16 other candidates from smaller parties who conducted limited campaigning. The European Parliament has issued a statement deeming the elections “neither free nor fair” and urging democratic partners to defend democracy and human rights in Tanzania.
