Tanzania’s election commission said Saturday that President Samia Suluhu Hassan won the Oct. 29 general election with 97.66 percent of the vote, or 31,913,866 ballots, securing a second term over 16 minor challengers. Turnout was reported at about 70 percent, and results signaled a sweep for the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi party. The announcement came amid nationwide protests, a fourth day of an internet blackout, and opposition claims of irregularities, while international groups urged transparency and calm.
Opposition leaders rejected the outcome and called for an independent review, asserting pre-election arrests, voter suppression, and problems at polling stations. In Zanzibar, ACT-Wazalendo alleged ballot stuffing, multiple voting without identification, and removal of observers, and sought a fresh vote. Demonstrations flared in cities such as Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, where witnesses reported tear gas, live fire, and a curfew in the capital as soldiers deployed. Unconfirmed reports suggested more than 30 deaths. Authorities described protesters as criminals and warned of firm action. Verification has been limited by the internet shutdown and restrictions on foreign press. Critics say the campaign followed years of pressure on dissent since 2021.
Opposition leaders rejected the outcome and called for an independent review, asserting pre-election arrests, voter suppression, and problems at polling stations. In Zanzibar, ACT-Wazalendo alleged ballot stuffing, multiple voting without identification, and removal of observers, and sought a fresh vote. Demonstrations flared in cities such as Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, where witnesses reported tear gas, live fire, and a curfew in the capital as soldiers deployed. Unconfirmed reports suggested more than 30 deaths. Authorities described protesters as criminals and warned of firm action. Verification has been limited by the internet shutdown and restrictions on foreign press. Critics say the campaign followed years of pressure on dissent since 2021.
