The United Nations has expressed deep concern over escalating post-election violence in Tanzania, where deadly protests have followed the general election held on October 29.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for calm and restraint, urging Tanzanian authorities to uphold accountability and protect citizens’ rights amid ongoing unrest.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, Guterres deplored the loss of lives during the demonstrations and extended condolences to the families of those affected.
He also called for “a thorough and impartial investigation into all allegations of excessive use of force.”
According to the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), credible reports indicate that at least ten demonstrators have been killed following clashes with security forces in major cities, including Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro.
The unrest has been fueled by the use of firearms and tear gas against protesters.
A nationwide curfew remains in place, and internet access has reportedly been severely restricted since polling day.
The UN human rights office urged the government to restore connectivity and ensure citizens can fully exercise their rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly.
“Curtailment of communication will only further undermine public trust in the electoral process,” the office warned.
The violence follows an election campaign marked by reports of arbitrary arrests and detentions of opposition figures, including leaders of the Chadema party.
The OHCHR also noted enforced disappearances of dissenting voices, such as Tanzania’s former ambassador to Cuba.
“All those in arbitrary detention must be immediately and unconditionally released,” OHCHR spokesperson Seif Magango said in Geneva on Friday.
“Those held legally must be accorded full due process and fair trial rights. We urge the authorities to ensure prompt, impartial, and effective investigations into all cases of election-related violence, and to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”
The UN’s call underscores growing international concern over democratic governance and human rights in Tanzania, as the country navigates a tense post-election environment.
