Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan Claims Victory Amid Protests

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has secured a decisive victory in the recent elections, garnering 97.66 percent of the votes. This announcement was made by the National Electoral Commission on state television on March 15, 2024. The result comes after a tumultuous election period marked by violent protests and significant unrest across the country.

The electoral process faced serious challenges, including the incarceration of key opposition figures and the disqualification of the main opposition party, Chadema. Following the announcement of the election results, a swift swearing-in ceremony for Hassan was scheduled for the same day, indicating a rapid transition despite the surrounding chaos.

Reports from Chadema claim that the unrest surrounding the elections has resulted in the deaths of approximately 700 people, based on data collected from hospitals and health facilities. A security source in Dar es Salaam confirmed that fatalities are “in the hundreds,” reflecting the severity of the situation.

Hassan ascended to the presidency following the unexpected death of her predecessor, John Magufuli, in 2021. Analysts suggest that this overwhelming victory was an attempt to solidify her position after facing opposition from factions within the military and supporters of Magufuli. Rights organizations have condemned her administration’s actions leading up to the election, describing a climate of fear characterized by high-profile abductions and increased repression.

The election day itself was marred by chaos, as citizens protested in the streets against the government. Demonstrators tore down campaign posters of Hassan, clashed with police, and attacked polling stations. In response, the government imposed an internet blackout and a nationwide curfew, complicating efforts to communicate and report on the situation.

Though Hassan has remained silent since the onset of the protests, her government has denied allegations of using excessive force against demonstrators. Foreign Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo claimed in an interview that there have been no confirmed casualties among protesters, stating, “Currently, no excessive force has been used.”

International reactions have been swift. Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, expressed his deep concern regarding the violence and the reported casualties during the demonstrations. His spokesperson highlighted the urgency of addressing the human rights situation in Tanzania.

Public sentiment has turned against some members of Hassan’s family, particularly her son, Abdul Halim Hafidh Ameir, who is accused of overseeing the crackdown on protesters. Some unverified reports suggest that elements within the military might have sided with demonstrators in certain areas, although army chief Jacob Mkunda has publicly condemned the protests, labeling participants as “criminals.”

As Tanzania navigates this tumultuous period, the international community continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the wake of the elections.