Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan secured a decisive victory in the recent election, receiving over 31.9 million votes, equivalent to 97.66% of the total votes cast. The election, marred by violent protests, witnessed demonstrators expressing their discontent over the exclusion of major opposition figures from the race.
Protests erupted during the election, with reports of demonstrators vandalizing public property and security forces responding with tear gas and gunfire. The exclusion of President Hassan’s primary challengers by the electoral commission sparked outrage among the populace, leading to accusations of widespread arrests and abductions by human rights organizations.
President Hassan, following her official declaration as the winner in Dodoma, condemned the protesters’ actions as irresponsible and unpatriotic. She emphasized the importance of maintaining national security through all available means.
Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, alleged that hundreds of people lost their lives during the protests, a claim refuted by the government as exaggerated. The United Nations reported at least 10 confirmed fatalities in various cities, urging a thorough investigation into alleged excessive use of force.
In response to the unrest, the government imposed a nationwide curfew and internet restrictions, leading to disruptions in international travel and port operations in Dar es Salaam. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a comprehensive probe into the reported abuses and expressed condolences for the lives lost.
Critics questioned the high voter turnout reported by the electoral commission, contrasting it with previous elections. President Hassan, who succeeded John Magufuli in 2021, faced criticism for alleged human rights violations and a lack of transparency in addressing abduction reports.
Despite initial praise for her governance style, President Hassan has come under scrutiny for her handling of dissent and opposition activities. Her administration’s focus on infrastructure development and energy expansion has been overshadowed by concerns over civil liberties and political rights.