Tanzania Election Violence Escalates as Opposition Reports Hundreds Dead Amid Internet Blackout
Tanzania is facing a mounting crisis after three days of violent protests following Wednesday’s elections, with the main opposition claiming hundreds have been killed while the government denies using “excessive force.” The country remained under an internet blackout on Friday, restricting access to information. Security sources and a diplomat in Dar es Salaam told AFP that the death toll could be in the “hundreds” as demonstrations continued. President Samia Suluhu Hassan had aimed to secure a strong mandate and consolidate her power, with many of her key challengers either jailed or barred from participating. The elections, however, quickly spiraled into chaos. Protesters took to the streets in Dar es Salaam and other cities, tearing down campaign posters, clashing with police, and attacking polling stations. Authorities responded with a curfew and an internet shutdown. Foreign Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo told Al-Jazeera that the government had “no figures” on fatalities and that “no excessive force has been used.” Chadema, the main opposition party, reported far higher numbers. Spokesman John Kitoka said about 350 people were killed in Dar es Salaam and over 200 in Mwanza, with nationwide deaths potentially reaching 700. He warned the toll could rise further during curfew hours. A security source estimated as many as 700–800 fatalities across the country. With foreign journalists largely barred and communications restricted, independent verification has been difficult. The United Nations reported “credible reports” of at least 10 deaths, while Amnesty International cited at least 100 killed. Many hospitals and clinics refused to comment out of fear. Hassan has yet to publicly address the unrest, and local news outlets have not posted updates since Wednesday. Army chief Jacob Mkunda labeled the protesters “criminals” on Thursday. In Zanzibar, Hassan’s party, CCM, was declared the winner of local elections, but opposition party ACT-Wazalendo rejected the results, alleging voter fraud and demanding a rerun. Opposition officials claimed ballot boxes were stuffed, multiple votes were cast without ID, and election observers were removed from counting rooms. Residents in Zanzibar expressed fear, with many unwilling to speak openly due to potential reprisals. Analysts say Hassan has faced resistance from factions within the army and supporters of her late predecessor, John Magufuli, since taking office in 2021. Ahead of the vote, authorities banned Chadema and put its leader on trial for treason. Human rights groups condemned a “wave of terror” across the country, including high-profile abductions in the final days before the election. Much of the public anger has focused on Hassan’s son, Abdul Halim Hafidh Ameir, who is accused of overseeing the crackdown. While ACT-Wazalendo could contest local elections in Zanzibar, its candidate was barred from running against Hassan on the mainland.
