Tanzania in Turmoil: Hundreds Killed in Post-Election Violence

Tanzania is grappling with widespread violence and unrest following the recent general election, with the main opposition party, Chadema, reporting that hundreds of people have lost their lives. The protests, which began after the election results were announced, have seen demonstrators take to the streets, clashing with security forces and resulting in a significant loss of life.

According to Chadema’s spokesperson, John Kitoka, the death toll stands at approximately 700, with 350 reported deaths in Dar es Salaam and over 200 in Mwanza. The party claims that its members have been gathering information from hospitals and clinics across the country to reach this figure. However, the government denies using excessive force, with Foreign Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo stating that they have no information on any deaths.

The situation on the ground remains dire, with multiple hospitals and health clinics too afraid to speak out about the violence. The internet and communication blackout, now in its third day, has made it challenging to get accurate information from the affected areas. The United Nations has reported 10 deaths, while Amnesty International has confirmed at least 100 fatalities.

The election, which saw President Samia Suluhu Hassan win with a commanding majority, has been widely criticized by opposition parties and human rights groups. The exclusion of main opposition parties from the election process and the subsequent violence have raised concerns about the country’s democratic future.

As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is watching closely, urging restraint and calling for a peaceful resolution to the crisis. The Tanzanian government’s response to the protests will be crucial in determining the country’s trajectory in the coming days.