U.S. Reconsiders Tanzania Relations Amid Post-Election Crackdown

The United States government is conducting a comprehensive review of its relationship with Tanzania. This action follows a U.S. State Department statement criticizing what it termed 'repression' and 'violence against civilians' during protests that occurred after Tanzania's October presidential election.

Concerns Over Bilateral Partnership

U.S. officials have expressed concerns that the Tanzanian government's actions raise questions regarding the bilateral relationship and the country's reliability as a partner in East Africa.

Allegations of Violence and Casualties

Reports from Tanzania's main opposition party, the United Nations, and several human rights organizations indicate that hundreds of individuals may have died due to the government's response to protesters. The Tanzanian government has not released an official death toll, and independent verification of these figures remains limited.

This U.S. review represents Washington's strongest diplomatic response to Tanzania's post-election events. The European Union previously suspended tens of millions of dollars in aid to Tanzania last month, citing the crackdown and a lack of transparency.

President Hassan's Stance

Days prior to the U.S. announcement, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan publicly criticized Western nations, religious leaders, and opposition figures. She stated that these entities were interfering in Tanzania's internal affairs, questioning their motivations: "Do they still think they're still our masters, our colonizers? Why, because of the little money they give us?" Hassan made these remarks to a gathering of elders in Dar es Salaam.

President Hassan characterized the violence as an attempted coup and defended the security forces. She stated: "Were these really demonstrations or acts of violence? People were destroying government buildings, raiding police stations, and stealing weapons. Police are mandated to protect lives and property. When people say they used excessive force — what were they supposed to do, just sit and watch a coup happening?"

Hassan claimed to have won 98% of the vote in the October 29 election. This election occurred after main opposition parties were prevented from participating and several of their leaders were arrested on treason charges.

Continuation of Crackdown Allegations

President Hassan assumed office in 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli and initially presented herself as a reformer. However, critics suggest that her administration has continued or intensified the previous regime's policies regarding dissent.

Opposition leaders deny plotting against the state and assert that government actions have resulted in over 2,000 protester fatalities. Additionally, dozens have been arrested, opposition offices raided, and prominent organizers have reportedly gone into hiding. Hundreds of protesters are reported missing.

Specific Case: John Oduor

Among those reported killed was John Oduor, a Kenyan teacher who was fatally shot in Dar es Salaam on polling day. More than a month after his death, his body remains in a Tanzanian morgue, preventing his family from repatriating him for a traditional burial. Oduor's elder sister, Celestine, appealed to the President of Kenya for assistance in the repatriation process, citing the family's desire for closure.

International Condemnation and Calls for Action

Ahead of scheduled demonstrations on December 9, United Nations human rights experts condemned reported widespread violations in Tanzania. These alleged violations include extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and mass detentions of protesters, opposition figures, and civil society members. The experts urged the Tanzanian government to provide information on the whereabouts of all disappeared persons and to lift restrictions on media coverage, citing international obligations.

Amnesty International and other human rights organizations have indicated that Tanzania's post-election crisis signifies an escalating crisis in the East African region, marked by crackdowns on opposition and press freedom.

The political situation continues, with families like Oduor's seeking answers regarding their missing or deceased loved ones.