The recent presidential elections in Tanzania have sparked significant unrest in Dar-es-Salaam, the nation’s largest city. Following the exclusion of major opposition figures from the electoral race, protests erupted, leading to police employing tear gas and gunfire to disperse the demonstrators. Amnesty International has reported at least two fatalities during these clashes.
Protests Erupt in Dar-es-Salaam
On the day after the election, large crowds took to the streets, defying a imposed curfew. Protests were notably fierce in the Mbagala, Gongo la Mboto, and Kiluvya neighborhoods. Witnesses reported the sound of gunfire mixed with the use of tear gas by police in an effort to quell the growing dissent.
Casualties and Security Measures
- At least two individuals have reportedly died: one civilian and one police officer.
- Amnesty International’s regional director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, expressed deep concern over the deaths, calling for an independent investigation into the violence.
- Internet services have been disrupted in the city amid the protests, complicating communication among demonstrators.
Election Context and Public Response
The unrest follows a controversial election in which President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s primary challengers were disqualified from running. This situation has intensified public anger, as citizens and rights organizations criticize the government’s crackdown on opposition members, activists, and even journalists.
Opposition Exclusion and Election Irregularities
- The Independent National Electoral Commission disqualified the main opposition party, Chadema, leading up to the elections.
- Notable opposition leader Tundu Lissu was arrested earlier in April, charged with treason after calling for electoral reforms.
- Another key candidate, Luhaga Mpina from ACT-Wazalendo, was also barred from participating.
International and Local Reactions
Local and global human rights organizations have warned about rampant election-related violence in recent months. A panel of nine UN experts has reported over 200 disappearances linked to political tensions since 2019. Human Rights Watch noted multiple incidents of harassment and suppression against critics ahead of the election.
While protesters have faced repression, they have continued to mobilize using platforms like the Zello app, seeking to organize further demonstrations. Security alerts from the United States embassy noted that major routes, including those leading to Julius Nyerere International Airport, have been blocked amidst these tensions.
Looking Ahead
The situation in Tanzania highlights a growing dissatisfaction among citizens towards the government and its tactics. Observers are calling for meaningful reforms to ensure that future elections are free and fair, rather than marred by violence and intimidation.
