Tanzania’s major cities are facing severe turmoil. Furious opposition supporters have flooded the streets. They condemn Wednesday’s presidential and parliamentary votes as a complete “farce.”
Early counts from the south show incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan cruising toward an overwhelming victory. She secured nearly 95% of the early vote. Consequently, the nation is now facing intense political instability.
Chaos Grips Major Urban Centers
Chaotic scenes have dominated the landscape in major cities. This includes Dar es Salaam and Mwanza.
- Gunfire has been heard across several areas.
- Tear gas clouds are choking protesting crowds.
- Roads are heavily barricaded, and bonfires are blazing.
The violence even reached the border. Hundreds of people crossed into Kenya. This paralyzed the Namanga crossing hub. Kenyan police report that two people died amid frantic chases involving Tanzanian security forces.
The Root of the Fury: ‘Democracy in Chains’
Critics allege major electoral foul play. The main grievances stem from the systematic removal of credible challengers.
- Top rival Tundu Lissu was arrested on treason charges. He asserts these charges are baseless. His party subsequently chose to boycott the vote.
- Another contender, Luhaga Mpina, was blocked from running due to technical disqualifications.
- Only 16 minor parties participated, lacking any real political influence.
President Samia’s party has been undefeated since independence. Therefore, a second term for her appears almost certain.
Violence Erupts Nationwide
Thursday brought renewed violence and civil unrest across multiple cities.
- Dodoma (Capital): Witnesses reported widespread street battles.
- Mwanza: Protesters swarmed the city center. They were met with tear gas and live bullets.
- Dar es Salaam: Authorities imposed a night curfew. The main airport road was shut down. Hospitals were quickly overwhelmed with wounded individuals.
Military chief Gen. Jacob Mkunda blamed the chaos on “troublemakers wishing harm.” The government ordered all civil servants to remain at home until Friday.
Global Condemnation and Digital Blackout
International bodies reacted with alarm. Lawmakers from the European Union (EU) called the election “a fraud months in the making.” Amnesty International described the reported deaths as “deeply disturbing.”
The human rights group also demanded unrestricted internet access. Connectivity has been crippled nationwide amidst the unrest. Consequently, protesters have adapted. They are switching to walkie-talkie applications like Zello to coordinate movements.
President Samia initially rose to power in 2021. Early hopes that she would relax authoritarian controls have faded.
Her term has recently been marked by increased arrests and the silencing of critics. The actions of the people make one thing clear: silence is not an option.
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