Protests Erupt in Tanzania Over Controversial Election Results

Tanzania is experiencing widespread protests as unrest continues over the recent electoral results. Demonstrators gathered in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, demanding that the National Electoral Commission cease the announcement of results from the elections held on March 13, 2024. The protests intensified after the military was deployed and internet services were shut down amid escalating tensions.

The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), has governed Tanzania since its independence in 1961 and was seeking to extend its control in this election. Notably, candidates from the two main opposition parties were barred from participating, leaving incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan to face 16 lesser-known candidates from smaller parties, many of whom conducted minimal campaigning.

In the semi-autonomous region of Zanzibar, the CCM retained the presidential seat, with the electoral commission reporting that President Hussein Mwinyi secured 78.8% of the votes. Opposition groups have alleged “massive fraud” in the electoral process and plan to disclose their subsequent actions soon.

As the protests entered their third day on Friday, demonstrators faced off against police, responding to what they viewed as harassment of opposition leaders and the limited electoral choices available to them. Several vehicles, including a gas station, were set ablaze, and clashes with security forces led to chaos in the streets.

Amnesty International has reported that two individuals were killed during the protests on Wednesday, raising concerns over the government’s response to civil unrest. The extent of property damage and any further casualties have not been officially addressed by the Tanzanian government.

In a precautionary measure, the government postponed the reopening of colleges and universities, initially scheduled for next Monday, to prevent further escalation of violence.

Military Chief Jacob John Mkunda condemned the violence and stated that the military would collaborate with other security agencies to restore order. The situation remains tense, with the authorities maintaining a heavy military presence in affected areas.

In addition to local unrest, Tanzanians living abroad have become active in supporting the protests. They have been hosting daily discussions on platforms like X Spaces to analyze the unfolding events and explore financial support for demonstrators.

The protests reflect deep-seated frustrations over political repression and the electoral process in Tanzania, raising questions about the future of democratic governance in the country. As the situation develops, the international community is closely monitoring the events in Tanzania, which could have significant implications for its political landscape.