Tension continues to rise in Tanzania as protests over the disputed general election intensify across major cities.
The United States Embassy in Dar es Salaam has taken precautionary steps by advising its personnel to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement as violence escalates.
Embassy staff were told to take shelter at their residences, steer clear of large gatherings, and monitor local media for updates on the volatile situation.
The embassy also encouraged its citizens to register in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time alerts and safety guidance as the unrest grows.
The demonstrations erupted after election day, where President Samia Suluhu was widely expected to secure another term in office with little opposition. The elections have been marred by controversy following the decision of the main opposition party, CHADEMA, to boycott the vote. The boycott came after its leader, Tundu Lissu, was charged with treason, a move that many Tanzanians and international observers have viewed as politically motivated.
Lissu’s absence left a major gap in the opposition, raising doubts about the fairness and credibility of the electoral process.
Another key opposition figure, Luhaga Mpina of the ACT-Wazalendo party, was also disqualified from contesting, further fueling public anger. Protesters have accused the government of using legal loopholes to silence competition and maintain control under the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi, which has dominated Tanzanian politics since independence.
With many citizens feeling that the elections were predetermined, large crowds have taken to the streets demanding transparency and electoral reforms.
In several regions, demonstrators have lit bonfires, blocked roads, and destroyed property as they clashed with police officers. Public buses and government facilities have been vandalized in parts of Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, and Arusha. Security forces have responded with tear gas and arrests in an attempt to disperse the crowds.
Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila warned that the government would not tolerate unrest, stating that law enforcement agencies were ready to take firm action against anyone causing chaos.
Despite roughly 37 million Tanzanians being eligible to vote, reports indicate a low voter turnout in many polling stations. Fear of violence and disillusionment over the fairness of the election kept many citizens at home. For others, the heavy police presence and previous reports of intimidation discouraged participation altogether.
Tanzania youths protests. Photo credit/file.
President Samia Suluhu, running on a Chama Cha Mapinduzi ticket, is seeking her second and possibly final term in office.
However, the ongoing protests and widespread public frustration have cast a shadow over her leadership. Many observers believe that the growing dissent signals deep political tension in the country, which could worsen if the government fails to address calls for reform and accountability.
