By: Sunday Ameh
Tanzanian security forces have been accused of killing dozens of protesters amid widespread unrest following Wednesday’s general elections, sparking international concern and diplomatic intervention.
The country’s main opposition party, Chadema, claimed that “around 700” people have been killed in clashes with security forces across major cities. The BBC also quoted a diplomatic source who reported credible evidence that at least 500 people had died since protests erupted. The figures could not be independently verified due to a nationwide internet shutdown that has severely restricted communication.
Protests broke out after opposition candidates were barred from contesting against President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is seeking another term. Demonstrations continued into Friday in Dar es Salaam’s Salasala, Yombo and Tegeta districts, despite a government curfew and warnings against mass gatherings.
Army chief General Jacob John Mkunda described the protesters as criminals and insisted security forces had “controlled the situation.” However, hospital sources reportedly told the BBC that morgues in multiple hospitals were filled, with staff overwhelmed by casualties.
Human rights groups and journalists say the blackout has made it nearly impossible to verify the scale of the violence. The United Nations expressed alarm over reported deaths, saying at least 10 have been confirmed so far.
“We are alarmed by the deaths and injuries that have occurred,” UN human rights spokesperson Seif Magango told Reuters, urging authorities to avoid disproportionate force.
Diplomats from multiple embassies have urged restraint in dealing with protesters, many of whom accuse the government of undermining democracy by jailing key opposition figures — including opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who faces treason charges he denies. Another major candidate, Luhaga Mpina, was disqualified before the vote.
Early election results released by the electoral commission indicate the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party is leading, with state broadcaster TBC reporting that tallies have been announced for 80 of 272 regions. International observers cited very low voter turnout. Final results are expected Saturday.
On the island of Zanzibar, incumbent Hussein Mwinyi of the CCM reportedly secured nearly 80% of the vote. The opposition denounced the results as fraudulent.
The unrest has halted flights, left tourists stranded and caused major disruptions to transportation and fuel supplies. A Kenyan traveler described the atmosphere as “total disconnect,” citing loss of internet, ride-hailing services, and basic communication.
President Samia, who took office in 2021 after the death of John Magufuli, had initially been praised for easing political tensions. Critics now claim her administration is reverting to authoritarian tactics as security forces tighten control in the face of growing dissent.
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