President Samia Suluhu Hassan has stated that post-election unrest in Tanzania has negatively impacted the nation's international image and global credibility. The president made these remarks during the swearing-in ceremony for her new cabinet, cautioning that such events could impede national progress and affect access to international loans.
Election Context and Allegations
President Hassan was declared the winner of the October presidential election with 98% of the vote. However, the opposition, which was barred from participating, described the election process as a "mockery of democracy."
Post-Election Events and Investigation
Following the October 29 elections, security forces responded to protests. The opposition reported that potentially hundreds of individuals died during these events, which occurred under a five-day internet blackout. Official figures for casualties have not been released by authorities. Images and videos of deceased Tanzanians circulated online after the disputed elections, during which several opposition leaders were reportedly jailed or disqualified. Approximately 240 individuals have been charged with treason following the protests.
President Hassan has initiated an official investigation into the unrest and has urged prosecutors to review or drop charges for detained individuals not directly involved in the protests.
Economic Outlook and Cabinet Appointments
President Hassan, who assumed office in 2021 after the death of President John Magufuli, initially received positive feedback for easing political restrictions. However, the political environment has since become more constrained. She indicated that her upcoming term might involve economic challenges, particularly in securing financial support from international institutions. The president stressed the importance of mobilizing domestic resources.
In her new 27-member cabinet, President Hassan appointed her daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, as deputy education minister. Wanu's husband, Mohamed Mchengerwa, retained a cabinet position as health minister. Seven members from the previous cabinet were not reappointed.
Reconciliation Efforts
Lazarus Chakwera, former president of Malawi and the Commonwealth envoy, is scheduled to arrive in Tanzania to facilitate reconciliation between the involved parties. Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey confirmed that Chakwera's four-day mission aims to lead "constructive dialogue" and will include consultations with government officials, political leaders, civil society groups, religious and traditional leaders, and diplomatic representatives.