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The international observers said conduct of elections fell short of democratic standards.
Tanzania has charged dozens of people with treason for taking part in the disputed elections held on October 29 election. A report says that 76 suspects are accused of attempting to obstruct the vote “for the purpose of intimidating” authorities in Dar es Salaam. They also face additional charges of criminal conspiracy.
The international observers said conduct of elections fell short of democratic standards. The main opposition party, Chadema, claims that more than 1,000 people were killed as security forces cracked down on demonstrators, alleging that bodies were secretly disposed of to conceal the death toll. The government has denied these accusations.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan secured over 97% of the vote, according to the official tally, after key opposition candidates — including Chadema’s Tundu Lissu and ACT-Wazalendo’s Luhaga Mpina — were prevented from running. Rights groups say the election was marred by intimidation, arbitrary arrests, disappearances, and extrajudicial killings.
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The African Union stated that the election did not meet regional or international standards for democratic polls. AU observers reported ballot stuffing, multiple ballot issuance, and an environment that undermined a peaceful and credible process. Meanwhile, Kenya’s government has called on Tanzania to guarantee the safety of its nationals caught in the unrest following last week’s disputed presidential election.
Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi said Kenyans living in Tanzania have reported being targeted in a violent crackdown on post-election protests. President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with 98% of the vote, a result that sparked demonstrations and accusations of vote-rigging.
