Over 700 Feared Dead in Tanzania Post-Election Protests as Opposition Cries Foul

Over 700 demonstrators have reportedly lost their lives in three days of violent election-related protests across Tanzania, following the announcement of the country’s presidential election results and the detention of opposition figures.

The unrest, which erupted on Wednesday, spread rapidly from Dar es Salaam to Mwanza and other regions after the National Electoral Commission declared President Samia Suluhu Hassan of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party as the winner of the tightly contested polls.

At least 700 dead in Tanzania’s post-election protests, opposition says
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Opposition Alleges Mass Killings

According to Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, security forces have used excessive force against protesters demanding justice and transparency.

“As we speak, the overall figure for deaths is around 700,” said John Kitoka, Chadema’s spokesperson, in a statement reported by AFP.

“The figure for deaths in Dar es Salaam is around 350 and for Mwanza it is 200-plus, with additional fatalities recorded in other regions across the country,” he added.

Widespread Violence and Internet Shutdown

Eyewitnesses report scenes of chaos, with armed security operatives firing live ammunition and tear gas at demonstrators. Several activists and journalists have reportedly been arrested or gone missing since the protests began.

In an apparent attempt to suppress coverage of the unrest, the Tanzanian government has shut down internet access nationwide, imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew, and banned foreign journalists from reporting on the crisis.

Global Concerns Grow

International observers and human rights organizations have condemned the escalating violence and urged the Tanzanian authorities to restore internet access, lift restrictions on the press, and respect the right to peaceful protest.

As tensions remain high, the opposition continues to reject the election outcome, calling for fresh elections and the release of detained candidates.