Tanzania's election descends into chaos and violence, with a deadly toll.
The streets of Dar es Salaam and other Tanzanian cities have become a battleground, as protests erupt over the highly controversial presidential election. The main opposition party, Chadema, claims a shocking death toll, alleging that hundreds of people have been killed in the unrest. But the government vehemently disputes these figures, calling them a gross exaggeration and denying any excessive force used by security officers.
The election, held on Wednesday, was already marred by controversy. President Samia Suluhu Hassan's main challengers were notably absent, either jailed or barred from participating. Chadema's leader was arrested for treason in April, and the party itself was excluded from the election for refusing to comply with a code of conduct.
But here's where it gets even more contentious: the ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi, which has held power since 1961, was accused of attempting to silence critics and extend its rule. The election quickly descended into chaos, with crowds attacking police and polling stations and tearing down the president's posters.
The international community has taken notice. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an impartial investigation into the alleged excessive use of force, while foreign ministers from Britain, Canada, and Norway urged restraint and respect for freedom of expression and assembly.
And this is the part most people miss: the exact death toll remains a mystery. Chadema claims to have documented around 700 deaths, while a UN report suggests at least 10 people were killed. The government, however, denies having any figures on the dead, adding fuel to the fire of this controversy.
The situation is further complicated by the limited access of foreign journalists and a communications blackout, making it difficult to verify the true extent of the violence. Amnesty International reported at least 100 deaths, but independent verification remains a challenge.
Protesters, outraged by the exclusion of Hassan's rivals and alleged repression, have been met with tear gas and gunshots from police. Tragic stories emerge, like that of a Dar es Salaam resident whose family member was shot dead, mistaken for a protester.
As the nation grapples with this crisis, President Hassan faces a significant challenge. Analysts point out that she has had opposition from within the army and allies of her predecessor, John Magufuli, who was known for his iron-fisted rule. The recent unrest adds another layer of complexity to her leadership.
With partial election results showing a commanding lead for Hassan, the world watches and waits for the final outcome. But the question remains: can Tanzania find a path to peace and reconciliation after such a tumultuous election?
