Tanzania election crisis sparks nationwide protest crackdown

Tanzania election crisis deepens as the government bans protests, tightens security, and faces global scrutiny over violence and human rights concerns.
Tanzania has sharply increased security measures after banning nationwide protests linked to its controversial October election. On Tuesday—coinciding with the country’s Independence Day—officials instructed non-essential workers to stay home and halted most public transportation as a preventive measure against unrest.

Police and soldiers were stationed throughout Dar es Salaam, Dodoma and Arusha, patrolling empty streets and setting up checkpoints near major government buildings, including the offices of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Protest Calls Follow Disputed Election Results

Civil society groups and activists had urged citizens to take to the streets to challenge the ruling party’s landslide victory on October 29. The election was widely criticised after opposition candidates were blocked from participating, allowing President Hassan to win nearly 98 percent of the vote.

Those early rally attempts were met with a violent crackdown, with hundreds reportedly killed and thousands detained. Although authorities labelled the protests as a “coup attempt,” activists insist they are standing up for democratic rights.

Reports of Small Demonstrations Surface Online

While the capital appeared mostly calm on Tuesday morning, residents and online activists claimed that small groups had gathered in certain neighbourhoods. These reports could not be independently confirmed, but they reflect the rising frustration among Tanzanians calling for accountability.

International Pressure Mounts Over Human Rights Concerns

The global response has intensified. United Nations human rights experts estimated that at least 700 people were killed extrajudicially during the post-election violence. The Tanzanian government has acknowledged casualties but avoided providing official figures.

The United States also announced a review of its relationship with Tanzania, citing concerns over civilian safety, religious freedoms, free speech restrictions, and economic barriers facing foreign investors.

Ongoing Claims of Abductions and Political Repression

In the months before the election, opposition figures and rights organisations alleged that dozens of government critics had disappeared. President Hassan previously ordered an investigation into the abductions, but findings have not been made public.

A commission has also been formed to review election-related violence—though activists question whether this will lead to meaningful change.

Tanzania Faces Crucial Test for Democracy

The unfolding events mark one of Tanzania’s most tense political moments in years. As authorities maintain strict control over public gatherings, many citizens and global observers are watching closely to see whether the government will address concerns about democratic freedoms, transparency and human rights.