Tanzanian leader Samia Hassan began her second presidential term on Monday following an election marred by opposition bans and violent unrest. She took the oath at a restricted military ceremony in Dodoma after securing nearly 98 percent of the votes against minor party candidates. Major challengers were disqualified before the ballot.
Public tension persisted in Dar es Salaam, where businesses stayed closed after days of protests. A nationwide internet shutdown has continued since election day. Opposition party Chadema rejected the results as illegitimate and reported hundreds dead in clashes with security forces. United Nations officials acknowledged at least ten fatalities across three cities while government ministers denied using disproportionate measures.
Hassan assumed leadership in 2021 after her predecessor died. Her administration faces mounting criticism over rights violations including alleged abductions and torture of critics ahead of voting. Observers note her decisive victory aimed to strengthen authority within the ruling party despite widespread concerns about democratic processes. Official results confirmed her win with 97.66 percent support.
Public tension persisted in Dar es Salaam, where businesses stayed closed after days of protests. A nationwide internet shutdown has continued since election day. Opposition party Chadema rejected the results as illegitimate and reported hundreds dead in clashes with security forces. United Nations officials acknowledged at least ten fatalities across three cities while government ministers denied using disproportionate measures.
Hassan assumed leadership in 2021 after her predecessor died. Her administration faces mounting criticism over rights violations including alleged abductions and torture of critics ahead of voting. Observers note her decisive victory aimed to strengthen authority within the ruling party despite widespread concerns about democratic processes. Official results confirmed her win with 97.66 percent support.
