KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) — Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has claimed a staggering 97% of the vote in a recent election. Official results were announced Saturday, though the legitimacy of the election is being questioned. Many believe Hassan’s victory was more of a coronation than a true contest, as her main opponents were barred from participating.
Hassan became president in 2021 after the death of her predecessor, John Pombe Magufuli. At an event in Dodoma, she emphasized that the overwhelming support for a female leader was significant. She called for unity and insisted on maintaining peace in the country.
However, criticism is growing. Tundu Lissu, a notable opposition leader, has been imprisoned on charges of treason after advocating for electoral reforms. Another opposition figure was also prevented from running. The Chadema party has rejected the election results, claiming they do not reflect reality and accuse Hassan’s government of using force to maintain control.
The voting process on October 29 was marred by violence. Protests erupted in major cities, leading to military intervention. Internet disruptions added to the chaos, affecting travel and communications. Reports indicate that at least 10 people died during these protests, with the U.N. raising concerns about the escalating situation.
Human rights groups like Amnesty International have reported a troubling trend of enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests ahead of the elections. Since 2019, over 200 cases of disappearance have been documented, raising alarm among human rights experts.
Historically, Tanzania has experienced a unique political landscape. The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), has maintained power since the country gained independence from Britain in 1961. Unlike past leaders who allowed some level of opposition, Hassan is adopting a more authoritarian approach, suppressing dissent and curbing freedoms.
This rigid control stands in stark contrast to the youth-led democracy movements developing across the region. The CCM’s longstanding grip on power is a significant factor in Tanzania’s relative political stability, especially among rural voters who largely support the party.
In these turbulent times, the international community watches closely. Concerns about human rights and political freedom have become more pronounced. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and foreign officials from countries like Canada and Norway have expressed unease over the soon-to-be-released election results.
Tanzania’s journey in politics reflects a complex balance of tradition, power, and the yearning for change. As the nation moves forward, the hope for genuine democratic processes remains a critical topic, echoing sentiments from citizens seeking a more open and inclusive government.
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Tanzania, John Magufuli, Samia Suluhu Hassan, Antonio Guterres, Paul Kagame, Elections, United Kingdom, United Nations, General news, Protests and demonstrations, Politics, World news
