Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has secured an election victory amid controversy, claiming over 97% of the votes cast. Official results were released early Saturday following the October 29 election. The outcome is notable for the region, marking a rare landslide win.
Election Results and Implications
Hassan received her winner’s certificate during a ceremony in Dodoma, the administrative capital. Addressing the crowd, she emphasized the overwhelming support for a female leader. She called for national unity and peace following the election.
Political Context
Hassan previously ascended to the presidency in 2021 after the death of her predecessor, John Pombe Magufuli. As the first woman president of Tanzania, her election was marred by allegations of unfair practices. Critics noted that her main rivals were barred from contesting, leading to claims that the election resembled a coronation rather than a competitive process.
- 16 candidates from smaller parties competed.
- Violence erupted in major cities as protests against the election results surfaced.
- The military was deployed to assist police in managing the unrest.
Reports of significant unrest include the government postponing the reopening of universities scheduled for November 3, with many citizens affected by an inconsistent internet connection disrupting communication.
Violence and Human Rights Concerns
Human rights groups reported serious incidents tied to the election, with credible reports indicating 10 deaths across multiple towns, including Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the situation, urging for de-escalation.
International Reactions
Foreign officials, including the foreign ministers of the U.K., Canada, and Norway, issued a joint statement highlighting credible reports of fatalities resulting from the government’s security response to protests. The U.N. human rights office has documented a troubling pattern of arrests and violence in Tanzania.
Future of Tanzanian Politics
Hassan’s victory has implications for the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, which has maintained power since the country’s independence in 1961. As opposition leaders face challenges, such as Tundu Lissu, who has been jailed on treason charges, the political landscape may shift dramatically.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, warned of intensified repression prior to the polls. Reports indicated over 200 enforced disappearances since 2019, sparking concerns about political freedoms in Tanzania. Observers criticized Hassan’s administration for implementing strict control over political discourse and stifling dissent.
Conclusion
As Tanzania moves forward under President Hassan’s leadership, the nation faces a crucial time for governance and civil liberties. The stark division highlighted by this election signals a pressing need for dialogue and reform in the East African nation.
