Samia Suluhu Hassan is now officially declared winner of a highly controversial presidential election in Tanzania. She went on to win with a staggering 97% of the votes received. Her victory announcement coincides with massive protests against police violence and systemic racism that have engulfed the country. The election, held on a Wednesday, was marred by violent protests as citizens expressed their discontent with the electoral process and the exclusion of key opposition figures.
The tensions came to a head on Election Day. It provided fodder for demonstrators, who quickly tore down Hassan’s campaign banners and burned or wrecked government buildings and symbols. In response to this intensifying violence, police began using teargas and live ammunition to clear the protesters. This response increased tensions, since the protests had initially been powered by claims of bad faith electoral procedures.
The exclusion of Tundu Lissu and Luhaga Mpina, Hassan’s two most significant challengers, from the race sparked outrage among voters. Lissu, a prominent opposition leader, had previously faced legal troubles, being arrested and charged with treason and cybercrime offenses in April. His absence from the ballot only further stoked public anger over the electoral commission’s move.
The United Nations panel of human rights experts has documented over 200 cases of enforced disappearances in Tanzania since 2019. According to the UN human rights office, recent demonstrations became deadly. At least ten people died spreading across three cities. In addition, Tanzania’s main opposition party has reported that hundreds of people have died due to the violence.
After stepping into the president’s role from vice presidency in March 2021 upon the death of her predecessor, John Magufuli. Her confirmation to a five-year term now appears to be in deep trouble. Allegations of electoral misconduct was met with a violent backlash that has drowned out her appointment. This turmoil offers substantial tests to her leadership, especially as protests and civil unrest still plague many areas of the nation.