President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has announced an official investigation into unrest that occurred during the recent election period. This follows accusations regarding the government's response to protests that occurred after she was declared the winner of the presidential poll with 98% of the vote, a result challenged by the opposition.
Following the protests, at least 240 individuals were charged with treason. President Hassan has also instructed prosecutors to consider leniency for those arrested in connection with the unrest, stating, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
International Calls for Inquiry
This announcement follows a call from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, who urged Tanzanian authorities to conduct a comprehensive and transparent investigation. Türk's call addressed reports of fatalities and human rights violations during and after the October 29 elections.
Opposition groups have claimed that hundreds of people may have died in the post-election unrest. An official death toll has not been released by authorities. The reported violence marked a departure from the nation's historical image of political stability.
Presidential Directives and Political Climate
During a parliamentary address, President Hassan advised prosecutors to consider reducing or withdrawing charges for individuals who may have participated without full comprehension of their actions. She stated, "I am aware that many young people have been arrested and charged with treason. They did not fully understand what they were getting involved in." She further directed law-enforcement agencies, specifically the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) office, to "show leniency."
President Hassan also called for political parties to engage in discussions regarding political conduct that avoids national harm. She reiterated her commitment to initiating a new constitution-making process. The protests, led by young people, have been viewed in the context of global youth-led movements addressing established leadership.
Analysts suggest the unrest, while unprecedented for Tanzania, was preceded by a period characterized by delayed reforms, extended youth discontent, internal power struggles within the ruling party, and ongoing actions against opposition leaders.
Election Context and Pre-Election Events
In the months leading up to election day, analysts indicate that the ruling CCM government implemented measures that limited credible competition. Two primary opposition leaders were prevented from participating in the election: Tundu Lissu faces treason charges, which he denies, and Luhaga Mpina's candidacy was rejected on technical grounds.
During her initial term, President Hassan's leadership approach had garnered positive reception both domestically and internationally, as it initially permitted opposition parties to organize rallies and criticize the government without severe consequences. She had pledged to re-engage Tanzania with the international community through her "4R" doctrine: reconciliation, resilience, rebuilding, and reform. However, in the months preceding the election, the country experienced a series of abductions, arrests, and killings of opposition members, which affected expectations for reforms and reconciliation.