Tanzania Faces Deadly Election Unrest as Opposition Reports 700 Killed

Political turmoil has erupted in Tanzania following the recent election, with the main opposition party claiming that around 700 people have been killed during three days of protests. The unrest unfolded after President Samia Suluhu Hassan aimed to solidify her authority with a decisive electoral victory on March 15, 2024. The election, marked by the imprisonment of key challengers and restrictions on opposition participation, quickly descended into chaos as protests ignited in cities across the nation, including the commercial hub of Dar es Salaam.

Protesters took to the streets, tearing down posters and clashing with police, which prompted a government-imposed internet blackout and a nighttime curfew. Information from the ground has been limited, particularly due to a crackdown on foreign journalists. According to John Kitoka, a spokesman for the opposition party Chadema, the death toll has risen significantly. He reported approximately 350 deaths in Dar es Salaam and more than 200 in Mwanza, with the possibility that the actual number of casualties could be higher, especially during the curfew.

A security source corroborated this alarming claim, suggesting that fatalities could reach between 700 and 800 nationwide. Meanwhile, Amnesty International confirmed at least 100 deaths. The United Nations also expressed concern, with spokesperson Seif Magango stating that credible reports indicated at least 10 fatalities amidst the ongoing protests. Local health facilities have remained silent, reportedly fearing government repercussions for speaking out.

As unrest continued, President Hassan has not publicly addressed the violence, and local news outlets have remained largely inactive since the election. The only official comment came from army chief Jacob Mkunda, who labeled the protesters as “criminals.” In a separate statement, the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), indicated that internet services would be restored only when peace is achieved.

The situation in Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous region, remains contentious. While the CCM claimed victory in local elections, the opposition party ACT-Wazalendo rejected the results, citing electoral malpractice such as ballot stuffing and intimidation of election observers. A senior official from ACT-Wazalendo emphasized the need for a fresh election to restore justice.

Public sentiment in Zanzibar has turned to fear and disillusionment, with many residents voicing concerns over the lack of credible elections since 1995. An atmosphere of trepidation persists, as individuals expressed fear of government reprisals for speaking out against the election’s legitimacy.

Analysts suggest that Hassan’s determination for a significant electoral win reflects her intent to consolidate her position amid a crackdown on opposition voices, including the trial of Chadema’s leader for treason. Reports of high-profile abductions and a wave of repression in the lead-up to the vote have intensified public anger, particularly against Hassan’s son, Abdul Halim Hafidh Ameir, who has been accused of orchestrating the crackdown on dissent.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with calls for accountability and human rights protections growing louder. As the situation evolves, the people of Tanzania face a critical moment in their pursuit of political stability and democratic integrity.