0
0
Widespread protests have broken out in major Tanzanian cities following Wednesday’s presidential and parliamentary elections, which opposition groups claim were rigged in favor of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Escalating Unrest
Demonstrators filled the streets of Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and Mwanza, burning tyres and blocking roads after preliminary results showed President Samia winning by wide margins. In Mbeya Province, she reportedly secured nearly 95% of the vote, sparking further outrage among opposition supporters.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as police fired tear gas to disperse crowds. In Mwanza, gunfire was heard as hundreds of protesters clashed with security forces near the city center. A curfew has been imposed in Dar es Salaam, and civil servants have been instructed to work from home until Friday.
Cross-Border Tensions
Some demonstrators reportedly crossed into Kenyan territory, where Kenyan police confirmed two deaths following confrontations near the Namanga border. Kenyan authorities have urged citizens to avoid joining protests along the frontier, citing security concerns.
International Reaction
The European Union condemned the vote as a “fraud that had been unfolding for months,” while Amnesty International expressed alarm over reports of deaths and injuries during the unrest. The rights group also criticized severe internet disruptions, warning that restrictions on communication could heighten tensions.
The U.S. Embassy in Tanzania reported major roads—including access routes to Dar es Salaam International Airport—remained blocked as of Thursday.
Political Backdrop
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Tanzania’s first female leader, is expected to win a second term. Her ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party has never lost an election since independence.
The political climate, however, has been tense. Main opposition leader Tundu Lissu is currently jailed on treason charges, which he denies, while another candidate, Luhaga Mpina of the ACT-Wazalendo party, was disqualified before the vote.
Sixteen minor parties were allowed to contest, but analysts say none pose a serious challenge to CCM’s dominance.
Uncertain Days Ahead
Hospitals in Dar es Salaam, including Muhimbili National Hospital, have reported an influx of wounded patients. As internet access remains limited, protesters are reportedly using alternative apps like Zello to coordinate demonstrations.
President Samia, who initially won praise for easing restrictions on political opposition after taking office in 2021, now faces growing anger over what critics describe as a return to repression.
The situation remains volatile as Tanzanians await the official results and government response
