Tanzania Protests Erupt After Disputed Election; Internet Shut Down

Hundreds of protesters have taken to the streets for a second day in Tanzania following a presidential election marred by allegations of irregularities, while reports indicate at least two people have died.

Demonstrations began yesterday after the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, in power since 1961, sought to extend its rule in Wednesday’s election. Early results announced today through state television show incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan leading with 96.99% of the votes tallied in 8 out of 272 constituencies. The election was criticized for barring key opposition candidates, including Tundu Lissu who remains in prison, and Luhaga Mpina from running, significantly limiting voter choice. This outcome raises concerns about the future of democratic processes in the East African nation.

The government responded to the unrest by shutting down the internet, imposing a curfew in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, and deploying the military. Roadblocks have been erected nationwide, restricting movement to essential workers. Amnesty International has reported the deaths of a civilian and a police officer during Wednesday’s protests and is calling for investigations into the use of force against demonstrators. Reports from the border town of Namanga indicate protesters were dispersed with tear gas, halting business operations. You can find more information about Amnesty International’s work on human rights here.

Ferry services to the semiautonomous archipelago of Zanzibar, where electoral results are expected today, have also been suspended. Lawmakers from the European Parliament have stated the elections were “neither free nor fair” and urged international partners to defend democracy and human rights in Tanzania, echoing concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. For more on the political landscape of Tanzania, see this Council on Foreign Relations backgrounder.

Officials have yet to comment on the reported casualties, but the government has asked public servants to work from home to limit nonessential movement as protests continue.