Tensions are escalating across Tanzania after the opposition party Chadema dismissed the recent national elections as a “sham,” alleging widespread violence, unlawful killings, and a state-led campaign of intimidation.
Mounting Casualty Reports and Disputed Figures
According to Chadema leader Tundu Lissu, security forces have killed hundreds of citizens in the wake of the elections. The ruling government has confirmed that some lives were lost but insists the numbers are being exaggerated. The stark discrepancy in reported casualties has deepened public mistrust and raised fears of a humanitarian crisis.
Local communities describe scenes of panic and arbitrary arrests as authorities continue to tighten control in several urban areas.
Government Denial and Digital Blackouts
The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party declared President Samia Suluhu Hassan the official winner, asserting that the vote was both fair and democratic. Government spokespeople have blamed post-election violence on “criminal gangs” and denied that state forces are responsible for the bloodshed.
Meanwhile, extensive internet outages and electricity blackouts during and after the vote have fueled allegations of censorship. Amnesty International has criticized the government for deliberately restricting communication channels to suppress evidence of abuses and silence dissent.
Reports of Systematic Rights Abuses
Human rights watchdogs have documented alarming patterns of state violence, including reports of extrajudicial killings, torture, and arbitrary detentions. Amnesty International notes that the blackout not only disrupted daily life but also obstructed independent verification of events. Civilians and journalists were unable to share footage or access reliable information, creating what experts describe as a “climate of fear and isolation.”
International Reactions and Electoral Credibility
International observers, including missions from the African Union (AU) and other regional bodies, have stopped short of recognizing the results. Citing a lack of transparency and an uneven playing field during the campaign period, they urged Tanzanian authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the election process.
Analysts warn that the failure to restore confidence in the country’s democratic institutions could isolate Tanzania diplomatically and discourage future foreign investment.
Opposition Demands New Elections
Chadema has formally rejected the election outcome and refused to acknowledge President Hassan’s administration. Party officials are calling for fresh elections, claiming the process was manipulated from start to finish. “This government does not represent the will of the people,” Lissu declared during a press briefing in Dar es Salaam.
The political standoff has intensified divisions nationwide, with protesters demanding justice and accountability while security forces maintain a heavy presence in key opposition strongholds.
