More than 500 people killed in Tanzania election violence, inquiry finds

Inquiry Reveals Election Violence Toll

The commission investigating the aftermath of Tanzania’s October 29 general election has reported that 518 individuals died from “unnatural causes” during widespread protests. The body, led by chairman Mohamed Chande Othman, highlighted the scale of the crisis but did not specify the perpetrators. It called for additional scrutiny to determine accountability.

President’s Response and Defenses

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who secured 98% of the vote in the poll, claimed the election was fair and transparent. She attributed the violence to foreign forces attempting to destabilize her government. “We have learned. The commission has told us that all the violence was planned, coordinated, financed, and executed by trained criminals,” she stated, insisting the security agencies prevented anarchy.

“We have learnt. The commission has told us that all the violence was planned coordinated, financed and executed by people who were trained and given equipment for committing crimes,” she said.

International Concerns and Media Verification

International observers criticized the election’s lack of transparency, with the African Union and SACD noting it failed to meet democratic standards. The BBC confirmed multiple videos showing police shooting protesters. Footage depicted armed officers blocking demonstrators and using tear gas to disperse crowds, with audible gunfire in the chaos.

Opposition Accusations and Doubts About Independence

Opposition groups and human rights organizations accused security forces of brutally suppressing anti-government protests. They argued the inquiry, appointed by the president, lacked independence. “The inquiry cannot be independent or impartial,” one leader said, “especially when the government is the primary suspect.”

Root Causes and Protests Context

The commission linked the violence to broader economic, political, and social tensions, including demands for reform and unemployment. It noted that activists exploited these issues to mobilize citizens. The protests began in Dar es Salaam and spread nationwide, organized by youth frustrated with a one-party system that has dominated Tanzania since the 1960s.

The two main opposition figures were barred from participating in the election. Tundu Lissu, a key leader, remains in custody. The report also revealed that 197 victims were killed by shotgun wounds, while 2,000 were injured, including 120 security personnel. Othman stated that some bodies were buried without official notification, and mass grave claims “could not be substantiated,” citing AI manipulation of images.