Tanzania: Following Election Violence, the Opposition Claims that the Military has Hidden Bodies

Protests have erupted across Tanzania following Wednesday’s election, with young people flooding the streets of Dar es Salaam and other parts of the country to denounce what they believe was an unfair vote. Demonstrations have continued for several days as security forces responded with live ammunition and tear gas, prompting the government to impose a nationwide curfew.

Our hearts are bleeding. This is something completely new for Tanzanians,” said Brenda Rupia, communications director for the opposition Chadema party, speaking to The Associated Press from Dar es Salaam.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the victor with more than 97 percent of the vote, an unusually wide margin in the region. It marked her first election win since assuming office in 2021, following the sudden death of former President John Pombe Magufuli.

Her sweeping victory has drawn sharp criticism, with many labeling the election as deeply flawed. Opposition leaders Tundu Lissu of Chadema and Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo were barred from contesting. Lissu remains imprisoned on treason charges related to his demands for electoral reform, while his deputy, John Heche, was detained shortly before polling day.

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