Canada, Norway, and the United Kingdom have voiced serious concern over the situation in Tanzania following the general elections held on October 28 and 29. 

In a joint statement issued on Friday, the foreign ministers highlighted reports of fatalities and injuries linked to the security forces’ response to protests that erupted on October 29, urging the Tanzanian authorities to act with restraint. Tension in the country escalated as citizens took to the streets, alleging that the elections were manipulated to favour President Samia Suluhu Hassan.  

Opposition leaders, including Tundu Lissu, remain in detention on treason charges, while another candidate, Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo, was removed from the ballot. Demonstrators argue that these actions left voters with few options, consolidating Samia’s position.  

The joint statement emphasised that citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression must be respected. 

“We call on the Tanzanian authorities to uphold their international commitments and ensure that all citizens can participate freely and safely in public life,” the ministers said. 

They also noted that pre-election harassment, abductions, and intimidation of opposition members, journalists, and civil society actors raised significant concerns. 

Protests quickly spread across major towns and border areas, including Namanga, where roads were blocked, bonfires lit, and posters bearing the president’s image torn down. 

Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, described reports of deaths as “deeply disturbing” and criticised government-imposed internet restrictions, warning they could fuel confusion and fear among residents. 

Security forces maintained a strong presence as vote counting progressed. Early tallies from Mbea province indicated that President Samia had secured about 98 per cent of the votes, a result that opposition supporters described as lacking credibility.

 Social media platforms were reportedly slowed down, forcing demonstrators to coordinate using alternative communication tools like the walkie-talkie-style app Zello. 

The ministers’ statement underscores the importance of upholding democratic principles even amid political tension. 

By calling on Tanzania to respect citizens’ participation and safety, Canada, Norway, and the UK highlighted the international community’s expectation that the government protect human rights while managing electoral disputes. 

As unrest continues, observers are watching whether the authorities will heed these calls and allow for peaceful engagement, emphasising that political freedom and safety are essential for long-term stability. The Eastleigh Voice