Tanzania Election Protests Turn Deadly Amid Fraud Claims
Dozens of protesters are feared dead in Tanzania after violent clashes erupted following a disputed election that opposition leaders and international observers have denounced as rigged. The unrest has plunged the East African nation into chaos, raising alarms over democracy backsliding under President John Magufuli’s administration.
Why Protesters Call the Election a “Sham”
Incumbent President Magufuli of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party was declared the winner with 84% of the vote, but opposition candidate Tundu Lissu (Chadema party) rejected the results, citing voter suppression, ballot stuffing, and intimidation. Lissu, a survivor of a 2017 assassination attempt, labeled the election a “complete fraud” and called for peaceful protests.
Security Forces Open Fire on Protesters
Demonstrations in Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Zanzibar turned bloody as security forces used live ammunition against crowds. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and eyewitnesses report bodies in the streets. Human rights groups estimate at least 50 killed, but a government-imposed internet blackout obscures the true toll.
“They’re treating protesters like enemies,” said an anonymous activist.
Government Justifies Crackdown, Silences Media
The Magufuli administration claims protests were led by “foreign agitators” and insists on maintaining order. Authorities have suspended independent media, blocked social media, and detained journalists, tightening control over the narrative.
Global Outcry Over Tanzania’s Crisis
The UN, African Union, and EU demand an independent probe into election fraud and violence. Human Rights Watch condemned the crackdown: “Shooting protesters isn’t law enforcement—it’s brutality.” The U.S. also expressed “deep concern” over human rights violations.
Tanzania’s Democratic Decline Under Magufuli
Once a regional model of stability, Tanzania has seen shrinking press freedom, jailed opposition figures, and now, election violence. Analysts warn the country risks sliding into authoritarianism unless reforms are enacted.
As tensions escalate, Tanzanians face a critical question: Will the government negotiate or double down on repression?
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