On October 31, 2025, the Foreign Ministers of Canada, Norway, and the United Kingdom expressed their concerns regarding the situation in Tanzania following the national elections on October 28 and 29.
Concerns Over Election Violence in Tanzania
The joint statement highlighted credible reports of numerous fatalities and significant injuries stemming from the government’s security response to protests that erupted after the elections on October 29.
Call for Restraint and Respect for Rights
The ministers urged Tanzanian authorities to exercise maximum restraint. They emphasized the importance of respecting the right to assembly and freedom of expression in the wake of the unrest.
Pre-Election Environment Raises Alarm
Moreover, the statement pointed out that the period leading up to the elections was rife with issues such as:
- Harassment of opposition figures
- Abductions
- Intimidation of journalists and civil society actors
In light of these challenges, the foreign ministers called on Tanzanian authorities to honor their international commitments. They stressed the necessity for all citizens to participate freely and safely in public life, particularly in the electoral process.
