Protests Erupt in Tanzania Following Disputed Election Results, Reports Indicate Hundreds Killed
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – Violent protests have broken out across Tanzania following last week’s presidential election, wiht the opposition claiming approximately 700 people have been killed by security forces. The unrest stems from widespread allegations of electoral fraud and a rejection of the declared winner,incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The protests began in earnest after the announcement of Hassan’s victory, with demonstrations reported in major cities including Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro. Opposition leaders and supporters allege widespread irregularities in the election process, including ballot stuffing, intimidation of voters, and manipulation of results.
The government responded swiftly, imposing a nationwide curfew and enacting widespread internet disruption, confirmed by global monitor NetBlocks. Army Chief Gen. jacob John Mkunda condemned the protesters, labeling them “criminals” and stating security forces would work to contain the situation.
Demonstrators on Friday encountered a significant presence of police and military personnel. Reports indicate security forces have used live ammunition and teargas to disperse crowds.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) expressed alarm over the escalating violence,stating it had received reports of at least 10 deaths caused by security forces. OHCHR spokesperson Seif Magango confirmed credible reports of fatalities in Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro. The office has urged security forces to exercise restraint and refrain from using unnecessary or disproportionate force, while also calling on protesters to demonstrate peacefully.
“She must listen to the people. the mood of the country is that there was no election … We cannot vote for one candidate,” stated Tito Magoti, a human rights lawyer, criticizing the government’s response and urging President Hassan to engage with the concerns of the population. He further described the use of force by security agencies as “unjustified.”
The disputed election takes place against a backdrop of increasing political tension in Tanzania.President Hassan assumed office in March 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli. Magufuli’s tenure was marked by a crackdown on dissent and restrictions on political freedoms, raising concerns about the democratic trajectory of the East African nation.
While Hassan initially signaled a potential shift towards greater openness, critics argue that the recent election and subsequent response to protests demonstrate a continuation of authoritarian tendencies. The opposition, lead by chadema party leader Freeman Mbowe, has long accused the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party of rigging elections and suppressing political opposition.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation in Tanzania. Concerns are growing over the potential for further escalation of violence and the erosion of democratic principles.The OHCHR has called for a thorough and impartial examination into the allegations of electoral fraud and the use of excessive force by security forces.
Agence France-Presse contributed to this story.
