Tanzanian Police Use Force on Protesters After Turbulent Election

Following a contentious presidential election in Tanzania, widespread protests erupted in Dar-es-Salaam, the nation’s largest city. Demonstrators took to the streets after two leading opposition figures were barred from running, leading to violent confrontations with the police.

Tanzanian Police Response to Protests

On election day, protesters defied a curfew and gathered in several neighborhoods, including Mbagala and Gongo la Mboto. Reports indicate that police responded with gunfire and tear gas, resulting in at least two fatalities. Amnesty International confirmed that a protester and a police officer were among the deceased.

Calls for Accountability

• Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s regional director, described the killings as “deeply disturbing.”
• He urged Tanzanian authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the excessive use of force.

Internet access was severely restricted in Dar-es-Salaam amid the unrest. Despite this, activists continued to use alternative communication platforms to organize protests against the government.

Election Context and Burgeoning Tensions

The election resulted in President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s primary challengers being excluded from the ballot. This sparked public outrage and raised concerns over democratic freedoms and the treatment of political dissent.

History of Political Suppression

• The Independent National Electoral Commission disqualified Chadema, the main opposition party.
• Allegations of violence and repression have been prevalent in the lead-up to the election.

Human Rights Watch reported numerous instances of politically motivated violence and harassment, highlighting the dire situation for dissenters under Hassan’s leadership. The recent protests mirror broader frustrations across the continent, where citizens are increasingly restless against authoritarian rule.

Urgent Need for Democratic Reforms

As discontent lingers, activists and observers call for urgent reforms to foster a more democratic environment. The United Nations has critiqued the government’s actions, calling for accountability and respect for civil liberties. With the future of Tanzanian democracy at stake, the response of authorities will be crucial in the coming days.