Tanzanian President Hassan declared winner of disputed vote with 98 percent

Key Concepts

• Tanzania Elections 2020: Presidential and general elections held in Tanzania.
• Samia Suluhu Hassan: Incumbent President of Tanzania.
• Chadema: A major opposition political party in Tanzania.
• Electoral Reforms: Demands for changes to the electoral process.
• Protests and Violence: Demonstrations and alleged excessive force by security forces.
• Internet Shutdown: Government restriction on internet access.
• International Investigation: Calls for UN involvement to investigate alleged killings.

Tanzania Election Results and Protests

Tanzania's electoral commission declared incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan the winner of the recent election, securing nearly 98% of the vote. This outcome was preceded by three days of protests across towns and cities during the polling period. The main opposition presidential candidates were either jailed or prevented from running, fueling the demonstrations.

Opposition Demands and Government Response

Protesters have been demanding electoral reforms and the resignation of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. The President, in a statement, thanked the security apparatus for preventing the election process from being disrupted by the "chaos." She characterized the incidents, particularly in urban areas, as "unacceptable, uncivilized and unpatriotic," emphasizing that "Patriots build their countries and don't destroy what their fellow countrymen's blood and sweat built."

Allegations of Excessive Force and Killings

The government has denied using excessive force and claims that reports of killings are "greatly exaggerated." However, the main opposition party, Chadema, which has been banned from political activities, alleges that more than 800 people were killed during and after the protests. Chadema described the situation as a "massacre," with their morgues reportedly "flooded with dead bodies" in Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Dodoma. The party has called for international bodies, including the UN, to intervene and investigate.

Impact on Civilians and Media Freedom

Residents in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city, reported a heavy presence of police and soldiers on the streets, leading to widespread fear and people being reluctant to leave their homes. Amnesty International is attempting to verify the reports of violence. The organization has also called for the lifting of the internet shutdown to allow Tanzanians and the international community access to information about the events on the ground. Furthermore, Amnesty International is urging the government to permit local and international media to cover the situation freely.

Future Outlook

A presidential swearing-in ceremony is anticipated in the coming days. There is uncertainty about whether this event will trigger further protests.

Conclusion

The recent elections in Tanzania were marked by a decisive victory for the incumbent president, but also by significant opposition-led protests, allegations of electoral irregularities, and reports of violence and human rights abuses. The government's response has been to deny excessive force and condemn the protests, while opposition parties and human rights organizations are calling for independent investigations and greater transparency. The situation remains tense, with concerns about the future of democratic freedoms and the potential for further unrest.