Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan Wins Election Amid Deadly Protests

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has won a landslide victory in the country’s recent election, official results showed on Saturday. Hassan received 97.66% of the vote, sweeping every constituency, according to the electoral commission. A quick swearing-in ceremony was announced for Saturday.

The vote has been marred by violence and controversy. Key opposition candidates were jailed or barred from running, and the main opposition party, Chadema, says security forces have killed hundreds of people since protests began on election day, Wednesday. Rights groups accuse Hassan’s government of a “wave of terror” ahead of the vote, including abductions and arrests. Chadema’s leader was put on trial for treason, and the party was banned from participating in the election.

Hassan became president in 2021 after the sudden death of her predecessor, John Magufuli. She has faced opposition from some members of the army and Magufuli’s allies, and analysts say the election result strengthens her hold on power. Despite a heavy security presence, protests erupted across Tanzania, with crowds tearing down Hassan’s posters and attacking police and polling stations. The government responded with a curfew, internet shutdown, and tight lockdown.

A Chadema spokesman said around 700 people have been killed, based on reports from hospitals and health clinics. Other sources also describe the death toll as being “in the hundreds.” The government denies using excessive force and has not provided official numbers. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the violence and deaths during the demonstrations, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

Much of the public anger has focused on Hassan’s son, Abdul Halim Hafidh Ameir, who is accused of leading the crackdown. While there were reports that parts of the army may have sided with protesters, army chief Jacob Mkunda publicly supported President Hassan, calling protesters “criminals.” The situation remains tense, with limited information available due to media restrictions and government controls.