Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan emerged as the clear victor in an election marked by violent protests following the exclusion of her main rivals. The electoral commission announced that Hassan secured over 31.9 million votes, representing 97.66% of the total ballots cast, granting her a five-year term.
Disorder erupted during the election, with demonstrators vandalizing banners of Hassan and setting fire to government buildings, while security forces responded with tear gas and gunfire. Protesters expressed discontent over the exclusion of Hassan’s primary challengers and alleged widespread arrests and kidnappings of opposition figures.
Addressing the nation from Dodoma, Hassan condemned the protesters’ actions as irresponsible and unpatriotic, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Tanzania’s security through all available means. The main opposition party, Chadema, claimed that hundreds of individuals lost their lives in the unrest, while the UN human rights office reported at least 10 confirmed fatalities in different cities.
The government disputed the opposition’s death toll, labeling it as greatly exaggerated, and stood firm against criticisms of its human rights record. The imposition of a nationwide curfew and internet restrictions, along with flight cancellations and disruptions at Dar es Salaam’s port, added to the turmoil in the country.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged for a comprehensive investigation into allegations of excessive force and lamented the loss of life. Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo refuted claims of widespread force usage, attributing any incidents to isolated criminal elements.
The electoral commission noted a turnout of nearly 87% among the 37.6 million registered voters, triggering skepticism given the significantly lower turnout in the previous election won by John Magufuli. Critics highlighted disruptions at polling stations during the recent election, indicating subdued participation.
President Hassan, who initially garnered praise for easing government restrictions upon assuming office, has faced mounting criticism from opposition groups and activists due to reported arrests and disappearances of dissenters. Despite promises to investigate alleged abductions, official findings have not been disclosed.
Throughout her campaign, Hassan highlighted achievements in infrastructure development and energy sector enhancements, aiming to showcase her administration’s progress.