Tanzanian authorities have raised alarm over reports that foreigners in key towns are planning to stage another wave of protests, just a day after President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner of the country’s recent general election.
In a statement seen by MamboMseto.co.ke, the police said intelligence gathered shows that hundreds of foreigners, allegedly ferried into the country using boda bodas, crossed the border illegally with plans to spark demonstrations and create instability.
“Tanzania Police have received information that a group of foreign nationals are in the country with the aim of committing crimes, including creating chaos. These people are purporting to do several jobs, including operating boda bodas,” the police spokesperson said in a statement.
The statement further indicated that the individuals are believed to be operating in various regions, including Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, Mwanza, Songwe, and other surrounding areas.
Police said investigations are ongoing to trace and arrest anyone involved, warning citizens against harbouring or working with foreigners whose intentions are unclear.
“As police follow up on these reports with a view to taking action in line with our laws, any citizen hosting a foreigner whose work is unknown or whose activities appear suspicious is asked to provide information to government officers,” the statement added.
Authorities have also warned that any Tanzanian or business entity found accommodating the suspects will face arrest and prosecution.
However, the police did not disclose the nationalities of the foreigners or provide details about the alleged plot to disrupt peace.
The warning follows a tense post-election period after President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared victorious in a race that opposition leaders and international observers have called deeply flawed. According to the country’s electoral commission, President Samia reportedly secured 98 per cent of the total votes cast.
Her win, however, has been overshadowed by claims of widespread irregularities and reports of violent protests in several polling stations. Some voters were seen storming polling centers and destroying ballot boxes after accusing election officials of bias and fraud. Independent observers noted a significant drop in voter turnout in many areas, which they attributed to fear of violence and limited access to information.
During the election, authorities were accused of shutting down the internet and blocking social media platforms to prevent citizens from sharing updates and organizing protests. Several human rights groups have criticised the move, saying it was meant to suppress dissent and silence opposition voices.
Local media have reported fatalities following the unrest, with some estimates suggesting that up to 700 people may have died during three days of post-election clashes. The government has not confirmed the figures, but reports of arrests, injuries, and property destruction continue to emerge.
Opposition parties have rejected the election outcome, demanding that a new vote be conducted under international supervision to ensure transparency. Human rights organisations have also urged the Tanzanian government to respect civil liberties and open dialogue with all political groups to prevent further unrest.
The international community is closely monitoring developments in Tanzania, warning that if tensions are not addressed swiftly and fairly, the situation could worsen and threaten regional stability.
