UPDATE: Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan was sworn in today in a tightly controlled ceremony in Dodoma, following a highly disputed election that has led to deadly protests across the nation. The October 29, 2025 election saw significant violence, with reports of at least 10 fatalities in major cities, including Dar es Salaam.
The swearing-in ceremony, attended only by invited guests, marked a stark contrast to previous events that were open to the public at packed venues. The political climate remains tense as authorities struggle to maintain order after widespread unrest erupted when two leading opposition candidates were barred from running.
In the wake of the election, which was marred by allegations of fraud, the streets of Dar es Salaam remained deserted. Gas stations and grocery stores were shuttered, and many residents stayed home as government employees continued to work remotely. Reports indicate that internet connectivity has been intermittent, hampering communication and travel.
Protests erupted across Tanzania, prompting the deployment of military forces alongside police to suppress the violence. The government has not disclosed the full extent of casualties, but Seif Magango, a spokesperson for the U.N. human rights office, confirmed in a briefing that credible reports indicated at least 10 deaths in locations such as Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro.
The main opposition party, Chadema, has vehemently rejected the election results, stating, “These results have no basis in reality, as the truth is that no genuine election took place in Tanzania.” Party leader Tundu Lissu remains imprisoned, facing treason charges for advocating electoral reforms. Another significant opposition figure, Luhaga Mpina of the ACT-Wazalendo Party, was also barred from running, further intensifying the political crisis.
Regional leaders, including the presidents of Mozambique, Zambia, Burundi, and Somalia, attended the inauguration, emphasizing the international attention on Tanzania’s political situation. Notably, Kenya’s President William Ruto released a statement urging Tanzanians to maintain peace and engage in dialogue to foster national stability.
The ongoing violence has also resulted in the closure of the Namanga border crossing with Kenya, where agricultural goods have been left to rot for six days, highlighting the broader economic impact of the unrest.
As the situation continues to evolve, the world watches closely. The government has postponed the reopening of universities, originally scheduled for November 3, as tensions remain high. The next steps from both the government and opposition will be critical in determining the future political landscape in Tanzania.
Stay tuned for updates as this situation develops.
