Tanzania’s reputation for stability has been marred by unrest following the recent controversial elections, according to President Samia Suluhu Hassan. During the swearing-in of her newly appointed cabinet, the president stated that the violence surrounding the October elections could have detrimental effects on the country’s global credibility, especially in light of its reliance on loans from international creditors. She noted that the unrest has “stained” Tanzania’s image, which has long been associated with calm and order.
The elections, in which President Samia claimed a landslide victory with 98% of the votes, were marked by accusations of voter suppression and a lack of genuine opposition participation. Key opposition figures were barred from running, prompting the opposition to decry the election as a “mockery of democracy.” In the aftermath of the elections, civil unrest erupted, leading to a crackdown by security forces during a five-day internet blackout, and resulting in numerous casualties—estimates suggest that hundreds may have died, although official figures have yet to be published.
In response to the violence, President Samia has initiated an investigation and is advocating for leniency towards individuals who were detained but were not directly involved in the protests. This approach signals a potential shift in her administration’s handling of political dissent, especially considering her earlier tenure was characterized by efforts to alleviate political oppression.
Former Malawian president Lazarus Chakwera has been appointed as a Commonwealth envoy and will arrive in Tanzania to facilitate reconciliation efforts between conflicting parties. His mission includes discussions with government officials, opposition leaders, and various civil society organizations.
During her remarks, President Samia expressed concerns about the future, indicating that economic challenges may arise in the next term. She emphasized the need to focus on domestic resource mobilization to navigate potential difficulties in securing financial support from international lenders, stating, “The stain we brought upon ourselves could now hinder that.”
In a notable cabinet reshuffle, President Samia appointed her daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, as the deputy education minister while also retaining positions for several cabinet members, including her son-in-law.
As Tanzania navigates this critical period, the government’s commitment to addressing the unrest and fostering dialogue could serve to restore both domestic stability and international confidence.