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Hassan, Samia Suluhu

Tanzania's Election Marred by Unrest, Internet Shutdown, and Crackdown

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Tanzanian voters braved widespread unrest, internet shutdowns, and a heavy security crackdown as they cast their ballots in the country's general election. The election, which saw President Samia Suluhu Hassan seeking her first full term in office, was marred by the absence of key opposition figures, allegations of political intimidation, and suppression of free speech. The internet blackout, which was condemned by civil society groups and international observers, effectively silenced online mobilisation and independent reporting.

Key Takeaways:

  • The election was marked by widespread unrest, internet shutdowns, and a heavy security crackdown, raising concerns about the credibility and transparency of the electoral process.
  • President Samia Suluhu Hassan, 65, is seeking her first full term in office after assuming power in March 2021 following the death of her predecessor, John Pombe Magufuli.
  • The internet blackout, which was condemned by civil society groups and international observers, disrupted access to major platforms and communication tools, effectively silencing online mobilisation and independent reporting.
  • Tundu Lissu, the leader of the CHADEMA party, is currently on trial for treason and his party was barred from participating in the polls.
  • Another opposition figure, Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo, was disqualified on technical grounds.
  • Polling stations were reportedly raided and ballots destroyed in many parts of the country, and protests spread from Kimara to Magomeni and other parts of Dar es Salaam.
  • The US Embassy in Tanzania issued a security alert, advising American citizens to avoid crowded areas and remain indoors due to reports of demonstrations in multiple locations.
  • Critics argue that the election has been reduced to a symbolic exercise, with President Suluhu effectively running unopposed due to the absence of key opposition figures.

Statistics:

  • Over 37 million registered voters cast their ballots in the general election.
  • There were 17 candidates in the election, including President Suluhu and her running mate, Ambassador Dr Emmanuel John Nchimbi.
  • The internet blackout lasted for several hours, with NetBlocks reporting a disruption to major platforms and communication tools.
  • The protests spread to multiple locations, including Kimara, Magomeni, and other parts of Dar es Salaam.
  • The US Embassy in Tanzania issued a security alert, advising American citizens to remain indoors and avoid crowded areas.

Sources:

  • NetBlocks, "Internet access severely disrupted in Tanzania as social media and communication tools are blocked"
  • Reuters, "Tanzania declares state of emergency after protest in the capital"
  • AFP, "Tanzanian opposition figures face barriers in run-up to election"
  • Al Jazeera, "Tanzania's opposition faces 'repression' ahead of election"
  • The Guardian, "Tanzania's election: a one-sided contest that has left the country on edge"

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