Nationwide protests have entered their third day in Tanzania following a disputed general election held on October 29. The unrest began in Dar es Salaam and spread to other regions after opposition candidates were barred and citizens accused the government of rigging the vote.
The government has deployed the military and shut down internet access as demonstrators—mainly young people—continue to protest restricted election choices and the harassment of opposition figures. Clashes between protesters and police have led to at least two confirmed deaths, according to Amnesty International.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who succeeded John Magufuli in 2021, is seeking to extend her rule amid growing criticism of repression, disappearances, and media restrictions. Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, was disqualified earlier this year after its leader, Tundu Lissu, was arrested and charged with treason.
Human rights groups and UN experts have condemned the election process, citing widespread intimidation, disappearances, and politically motivated violence.
In Zanzibar, the ruling CCM party claimed victory with President Hussein Mwinyi winning nearly 79% of the votes. The opposition, however, alleged “massive fraud.”
The protests have forced the government to delay reopening schools and universities. Military chief Jacob John Mkunda announced that the army will work with police to “restore order.”