Tanzania Faces Unrest Following Disputed Election

Tanzania is experiencing widespread unrest following the general elections held on October 29, 2025. Protests erupted in Dar es Salaam and other cities, with demonstrators contesting the credibility of the electoral process. The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party, in power since 1961, faced criticism after barring major opposition candidates from participating. Incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan ran against 16 minor party candidates, leading to allegations of an uneven political playing field.

The United Nations reported that at least 10 people have died during the protests. Seif Magango, a spokesperson for the U.N. human rights office, stated,

"We call on the security forces to refrain from using unnecessary or disproportionate force, including lethal weapons, against protesters, and to make every effort to de-escalate tensions."

In response to the unrest, the Tanzanian government deployed the military, imposed a curfew in Dar es Salaam, and restricted internet access nationwide. Government workers were advised to stay home, and domestic flights were canceled, leaving passengers stranded.

Amnesty International reported two deaths during the initial protests and called for an investigation into the use of force by security forces. The organization emphasized the need for authorities to respect human rights before, during, and after the elections.

The CCM retained the presidential seat in the semi-autonomous region of Zanzibar, with incumbent President Hussein Mwinyi winning 78.8% of the votes. The opposition alleged massive fraud in Zanzibar's results and announced plans to reveal their next steps.