SADC Expresses Concern Over Escalating Violence in Tanzania Following Disputed Presidential Election

Strategic Insights -

Tanzanian security forces have been accused of using excessive force against protesters, while the government has imposed a nationwide curfew and restricted internet access. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has closely monitored the situation, urging stakeholders to exercise restraint and engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve the crisis. The disputed presidential election, which saw incumbent Samia Suluhu Hassan declared the winner, has led to widespread protests and violence, resulting in reported deaths, injuries, and destruction. SADC has expressed its readiness to assist through established mechanisms to facilitate dialogue and promote a peaceful resolution.

Key Takeaways:

  • The SADC has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and political unrest in Tanzania following the country's General Elections held on October 29, 2025.
  • President of Malawi, Arthur Peter Mutharika, has called upon all stakeholders to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from actions that may further escalate violence and unrest.
  • SADC is willing to assist through its established mechanisms to facilitate dialogue and promote a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
  • The opposition has denounced the election results as illegitimate, alleging voter suppression and intimidation.
  • Widespread protests have erupted in major cities like Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Arusha, resulting in reported deaths, injuries, and destruction.
  • The opposition claims that more than 700 people have been killed in the unrest, with over 350 reported deaths in Dar es Salaam alone.
  • The government has imposed a nationwide curfew, deployed military units to key urban areas, and restricted internet access.
  • Tanzania continues to grapple with wider human rights challenges, including gender-based violence and reports of enforced disappearances of critics.

Statistics:

  • 97.66% of the vote was secured by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
  • Over 31.9 million votes were cast for Suluhu, according to official figures, out of the roughly 32.7 million votes.
  • 87% of registered voters participated in the election, according to electoral officials.
  • More than 700 people have been reported killed in the unrest, including over 350 in Dar es Salaam alone.
  • The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed concern over credible reports that security forces used live ammunition against protesters.

Sources:

  • SADC Press Release, October 29, 2025.
  • BBC News Africa.
  • Al Jazeera.
  • The Citizen Newspaper.