In brief
In the aftermath of Tanzania's general election, widespread protests have erupted, leading to fears that hundreds may have died in clashes between opposition supporters and security forces. The internet blackout imposed by the government complicates efforts to verify the situation, as opposition voices claim severe repression and unjust electoral practices under President Samia Suluhu Hassan's regime.
Hundreds of people have been killed in Tanzania during three days of protests following Wednesday's general election, the country's main opposition party has reported.
A Chadema party spokesperson informed the AFP news agency that around 700 people died in clashes with security forces, although a nationwide internet shutdown has made it difficult to confirm these figures.
A diplomatic source in Tanzania indicated that at least 500 deaths were credible. In contrast, a government minister has defended the authorities' actions, claiming that details regarding the number of injured remain unverified.
Demonstrations have erupted in major cities, with young protesters labeling the vote as unfair, especially after the government barred key opposition figures from contesting against President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Foreign Minister Mahmoud Kombo Thabit characterized the unrest as isolated incidents and stated that the security forces acted promptly to control the situation. However, ongoing reports suggest vandalism and public unrest persist despite government assurances.
Protests continued in Dar es Salaam, where demonstrators defied warnings from military officials to cease protests. Critics accuse the government of undermining democracy, as former opposition leader Tundu Lissu remains jailed, and other candidates have been excluded from the election.
The UN has called for restraint from security forces, expressing alarm over the escalating violence during the election-related protests. International observers have reported minimal voter turnout during the elections, with President Samia expected to secure a victory under her ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), which has held power since Tanzania's independence in 1961.
The situation continues to unfold, with the electoral commission announcing that results from only 80 of the 272 voting regions had been processed by Friday afternoon.
