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Tanzania's post-election unrest damages stability reputation, president admits
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan acknowledged on Tuesday that last month's deadly election protests have tarnished the country's long-standing image of stability, warning the violence could undermine international confidence and economic support.
Speaking during the swearing-in of her new cabinet, Hassan, 65, said the unrest-marked by a disputed October 29 vote, opposition crackdowns, and a five-day internet blackout-had eroded Tanzania's credibility with global lenders, upon whom the nation heavily relies.
"We mostly depend on loans from international creditors, but what happened eroded our global credibility," she said, adding that the fallout could hinder future financial assistance.
Disputed election and violent crackdown
Hassan was declared the election's winner with 98% of the vote after key opposition figures were jailed or disqualified from running. Opposition groups, barred from contesting, dismissed the poll as a "mockery of democracy."
Security forces' suppression of post-election protests reportedly left hundreds dead, according to opposition claims, though authorities have not released an official death toll. Graphic images and videos of fatalities circulated widely online, shocking a nation that had maintained relative calm for nearly six decades.
At least 240 individuals face treason charges in connection with the unrest. Last week, Hassan announced an official investigation into the violence and urged prosecutors to reconsider charges for detainees not directly involved in protests.
Economic and political challenges ahead
Hassan, who assumed office in 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli, initially eased political repression but has since faced criticism for narrowing civic space. She cautioned ministers that her second term could bring economic hardship, particularly in securing foreign loans.
"In the first term, we used to get loans from outside due to our stability and progress. But the stain we brought upon ourselves could now hinder that," she said, urging a focus on domestic resource mobilization.
Her newly appointed 27-member cabinet includes her daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, as deputy education minister, while Ameir's husband, Mohamed Mchengerwa, retains his role as health minister. Seven former cabinet members were removed.
Commonwealth-led reconciliation efforts
Lazarus Chakwera, Malawi's former president and Commonwealth envoy, arrives in Tanzania this week for a four-day mission to facilitate dialogue between the government and opposition. The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Botchwey, stated Chakwera would engage with officials, political leaders, civil society, and diplomats to foster "constructive dialogue."
Chakwera's visit follows Hassan's call for national unity, though critics argue the government's actions-including mass arrests and internet shutdowns-have deepened divisions.
Key developments at a glance
- Election outcome: Hassan declared winner with 98% of the vote; opposition excluded.
- Violence: Hundreds reportedly killed in crackdown; 240 charged with treason.
- Economic impact: President warns of loan access challenges due to damaged reputation.
- Reconciliation: Commonwealth envoy begins mediation efforts.
