Tanzania’s presidential election descended into chaos as widespread protests broke out across major cities, which prompted a heavy security crackdown.
Demonstrators took to the streets to denounce what they described as government harassment of opposition leaders and unfair restrictions undermining the re-election bid of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has sought for a second term in office.
The U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam issued a security alert warning of “nationwide protests” as tensions escalated.
Authorities imposed a 6 p.m. curfew in Dar es Salaam after violent clashes in several neighborhoods, including Kimara and Ubungo, where protesters reportedly set a bus and a gas station on fire.
Local media also reported unrest in Magomeni, Kinondoni, and Tandale, while polling stations in Arusha and Mbeya were vandalized.
Military deployments were seen in Dodoma and Zanzibar, with soldiers stationed near media offices. Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila warned that law enforcement would act decisively against anyone “disrupting peace.”
Internet monitoring organization NetBlocks confirmed a nationwide internet disruption, further fueling concerns over transparency and communication during the tense vote.
Human rights groups have described the election environment as increasingly repressive. Amnesty International documented reports of enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and extrajudicial killings in the weeks leading up to the polls.
Key opposition leader Tundu Lissu of the CHADEMA party is still in prison facing treason charges, while another prominent opposition candidate was disqualified from running.
In an interview with the Associated Press, a university student, James Matonya revealed that voter turnout appeared low, especially among young people. “It feels like a one-horse race,” he said.
President Hassan, who assumed office in 2021 following the death of John Magufuli, is contesting her first full term. Sixteen minor opposition candidates also featured on the ballot.
Preliminary election results were expected within 24 hours, though the electoral commission has up to seven days to announce the official outcome.
As of press time, neither President Hassan nor the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party had issued a statement.
