What You Need to Know
The Tanzanian opposition has called for a gathering on December 9, Independence Day, to protest against violence following disputed elections. Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba announced the cancellation of celebrations, reallocating funds for rebuilding infrastructure damaged during recent unrest.
Africa. The Tanzanian opposition and other groups have called for a gathering on Independence Day, December 9, to protest against the killings that followed last month’s disputed elections.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba announced that Tanzania has canceled Independence Day celebrations, reallocating funds for rebuilding infrastructure damaged during the recent electoral unrest.
Nchemba urged Tanzanians to avoid violence and emphasized the importance of political dialogue. He stated, “I urge my fellow Tanzanians to unite and discuss the issues affecting us. Let us not return to what we have experienced, as the consequences are irreparable.”
The opposition believes that hundreds of people have died in the crackdown. The government has not yet disclosed the death toll and has formed an investigative committee.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan won the election with 98% of the votes, which the opposition described as “mockery of democracy.”
Her main competitors were unable to contest the elections: Tundu Lissu is in custody on charges of treason, which he denies, while Lohaga Mbina’s candidacy was rejected for technical reasons. Election monitors have since reported signs of vote manipulation and failure to meet democratic standards.
The government imposed a five-day internet blackout starting on election day, October 29, and threatened anyone who shared images from the protests.
Graphic images and videos of dead Tanzanians have circulated widely online, with international media verifying some of the disturbing footage. However, the government criticized the portrayal as an attempt to tarnish the country’s image, asserting that the nation is safe.
On Sunday, government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa stated that the investigative committee would shed light on what occurred. However, groups have expressed concerns about the committee’s independence. At least 240 people have been charged with treason following the protests, but President Samia later sought to ease tensions, asking the public prosecutor to be “lenient.” Reports indicate that many of the accused have already been released.
President Samia took office in 2021 as Tanzania’s first female president following the death of President John Magufuli. Initially praised for easing political repression, the political space has since narrowed.
Tanzania’s political landscape has been marked by significant turmoil, especially following the recent elections. The opposition has raised concerns over the legitimacy of the electoral process, citing widespread allegations of vote manipulation and violence against dissenters. This has led to heightened tensions between the government and opposition groups, with calls for accountability and transparency in the political system.
Since President Samia Suluhu Hassan took office in 2021, there have been mixed reactions to her leadership. Initially praised for easing political repression, her administration has faced criticism for its handling of dissent and the political environment.
