Tanzania’s post-election protests have left over 700 people dead. Demonstrations erupted after President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s main challengers were barred from the October 29 election, leaving her largely unopposed. Protests, concentrated in Dar es Salaam and Mwanza but spreading nationwide, involved clashes with police and military forces. The government imposed a curfew, restricted internet access, and restricted media coverage as security forces used live ammunition and teargas to disperse crowds.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan won Tanzania’s presidential election with about 98% of the vote, as confirmed by the electoral commission. Major opposition leaders were jailed or barred from running, prompting accusations of a rigged process and nationwide protests. Rights groups and observers reported internet shutdowns, detentions, and hundreds of deaths in clashes with security forces. Hassan praised security forces and urged unity, while foreign governments and the UN called for restraint and transparency.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan was inaugurated on Monday, November 3, in Dodoma for a second term after winning nearly 98% of the vote in Tanzania’s disputed election. The African Union and East African Community congratulated her and urged calm amid unrest. Leaders from Burundi and Somalia praised her leadership, while Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema attended the ceremony. Several regional and global leaders, including Kenya’s William Ruto, withheld public congratulations amid ongoing tensions.

Tanzania’s Constitution prevents courts from reviewing presidential election results once declared by the Electoral Commission, under Article 41(7). The clause has drawn criticism after Samia Suluhu Hassan won with 97.66% of the vote amid protests and reports of irregularities. Critics say the rule denies citizens legal recourse over alleged fraud, reinforcing presidential and party dominance under the long-standing Chama Cha Mapinduzi framework.

Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, rejected President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s re-election, calling the vote a “coup” and refusing to recognize her presidency. The party said the October 29 election lacked fairness, citing barred candidates, internet shutdowns, and violence during protests. Rights groups and international bodies reported deaths and urged investigations. The African Union, East African Community, and EU called for calm and accountability. Kenyan politicians also questioned the silence of the EAC chairman, President William Ruto.

Election-related protests in Tanzania have caused widespread shortages of food, fuel, and cash, disrupting daily life and access to essential services. Internet shutdowns, road blockades, and transport suspensions have limited the availability of goods and money, affecting flights, trains, and ferries. The shortages have left thousands of citizens vulnerable, prompting international states like the UK and Israeli governments to advise against travel or to remain in safe locations until services are restored.