Tanzania: Dar es Salaam (Brussels Morning Newspaper)- Police in Tanzania fired tear gas and live rounds to disperse protesters after a disputed general election triggered nationwide unrest. Opposition parties accused the ruling CCM of rigging votes, while authorities imposed strict curfews and internet blocks. International bodies, including the UN and EU, urged calm and demanded respect for democratic rights.
Tensions flared across Tanzania on Thursday as police fired live bullets and tear gas to disperse protesters denouncing alleged irregularities in the country’s chaotic general election. The unrest erupted in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, and quickly spread to several urban centers, underscoring growing frustration over what opposition parties and rights groups have called the “most flawed” vote in more than a decade.
Hundreds of demonstrators, many waving opposition flags and chanting “We want our vote back!”, filled streets near government buildings demanding transparency in the vote count. Security forces responded by blocking key intersections, using water cannons, and firing warning shots to scatter the crowds. At least several people were injured, and dozens were arrested, though the exact number remains unclear.
Disputed Election Sparks Outrage
The unrest follows a tense election marked by accusations of vote-rigging and intimidation. Early results, announced by the National Electoral Commission, showed the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party leading with a wide margin, while opposition leaders claimed “massive manipulation” at polling stations.
Opposition presidential candidate Freeman Mbowe of the Chadema party said in a press briefing that “the election was stolen in plain sight.” He accused the government of deploying the military to suppress dissent and prevent election observers from accessing polling stations in several regions. Independent observers also reported logistical problems, ballot delays, and limited transparency in vote counting, fueling fears of a repeat of past electoral violence.
Government’s Response and Security Clampdown
In response to the protests, Tanzanian authorities urged calm and imposed restrictions on public gatherings in major cities, citing “security concerns.” The Ministry of Home Affairs announced that any unauthorized demonstrations would be treated as “acts of subversion,” warning citizens to remain at home.
Police spokesperson David Misime defended the use of force, claiming officers acted within the law to maintain order. “Our duty is to protect lives and property,” Misime told reporters. “Those who break the law and disrupt peace will face legal consequences.”
Human rights organizations, however, condemned the crackdown. Amnesty International said in a statement that the excessive use of force against peaceful protesters “shows a worrying pattern of shrinking civic space in Tanzania.” The group called on the government to release those detained and ensure accountability for any abuses committed by security forces.
Internet Disruptions and Media Restrictions
The political crisis has been compounded by widespread internet disruptions and reports of social media restrictions since election day. Activists said platforms like WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook were partially blocked, hindering the flow of information and communication among protesters.
Journalists also reported harassment and threats from security agencies. At least two foreign reporters were briefly detained in Dar es Salaam for attempting to document the protests. Local media outlets said they were warned against broadcasting “inciting content.”
International Reaction
The international community has expressed concern over the developments. The United Nations urged Tanzanian authorities to “respect the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.” The African Union (AU) called for restraint and encouraged dialogue between the ruling party and the opposition.
The European Union issued a statement describing reports of violence and vote irregularities as “deeply troubling,” urging Tanzanian officials to guarantee a fair review process. The United States also echoed similar concerns, warning that “political stability in Tanzania depends on credible elections and respect for democratic rights.”
Historical Context
Tanzania, long regarded as one of East Africa’s more stable nations, has witnessed increasing political tensions in recent years. Since independence, the ruling CCM has maintained a near-total grip on power. Critics say this dominance has eroded democratic institutions and marginalized opposition voices.
The current election was viewed as a test of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership following her rise to power in 2021 after the death of former President John Magufuli. While Hassan initially promised to restore political freedoms, opposition figures say the latest election shows the government has reverted to old tactics of intimidation and control.
Public Fear and Uncertain Future
As night fell on Thursday, the streets of Dar es Salaam remained heavily patrolled by police and military vehicles, as reported by Al Jazeera. Residents reported sporadic gunfire and lingering tear gas in several districts. Shops and schools were closed, and transport services were suspended in parts of the city.
Despite the government’s attempt to project calm, analysts warn that prolonged unrest could destabilize Tanzania’s economy, which has been struggling with inflation and unemployment. Tourism, one of the country’s key industries, may also suffer if international travel advisories tighten.
Political analyst Asha Mtemvu noted,
“The government’s legitimacy depends on how it handles this crisis. The people have lost trust in the system, and regaining that trust will take more than statements it requires real reform.”
Calls for Dialogue
Amid the chaos, religious and civic leaders have appealed for calm and called on both sides to engage in dialogue. The Tanzania Episcopal Conference urged leaders to “listen to the cries of the people and resolve disputes peacefully.” Opposition leaders, however, have vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations until “the people’s vote is respected.”
As of Friday morning, the situation remained tense but relatively calm, with security forces maintaining a strong presence in city centers. The government has yet to announce whether it will initiate an independent investigation into the allegations of vote fraud and police violence.
