Dar es Salaam turned tense on Wednesday as protesters clashed with police during Tanzania’s national election. Youth threw stones, torched a fuel station, and faced tear gas volleys in multiple neighborhoods.
Hundreds tried to reach the city center via Selander Bridge, but security forces blocked their path.
Internet services went dark across the country, according to monitoring groups. Unverified videos of burning debris and police action flooded social platforms despite the blackout.
Official statements from police and government were not immediately available.
Opposition Locked Out of the Race
President Samia Suluhu Hassan voted in Dodoma, calling on citizens to “select their leaders.” But the ballot offers little real choice.
CHADEMA, the main opposition, was barred in April after rejecting an electoral code. Its leader, Tundu Lissu, remains on trial for treason charges he rejects.
The second opposition party’s candidate, Luhaga Mpina, was disqualified following a legal challenge.
Only minor candidates now face Hassan and her CCM party, which has ruled since 1977.
“This is no election it’s a coronation,” said Deogratius Munishi, a CHADEMA official, speaking from Kenya.
Low Turnout, High Stakes
Polling stations saw few voters before closing at 4 p.m. Results are expected within three days.
Hassan, who assumed power in 2021 after John Magufuli’s death, initially relaxed media and political restrictions. But recent years brought accusations of abductions including a former ambassador taken from home this month. Police are investigating, but no updates have been shared.
Hassan maintains her government respects rights and launched a probe into disappearances last year still unpublished.
A Country on Edge
As Hassan highlights roads, power, and growth, protesters demand justice and democracy. Zanzibar also elects its leaders and lawmakers.
With 68 million people watching, this vote is more than numbers it’s a test of trust.
Will the results heal or deepen the divide?
Should Tanzania allow opposition back in? Comment below
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