Why is there violence in Tanzania?
Asked 9 hours ago
Answer
Violence in Tanzania is driven by widespread protests against alleged electoral fraud, the exclusion of opposition candidates, and longstanding political repression. Demonstrators demand electoral reforms and the resignation of President Samir Seluhu Hassan. The government has responded with force, curfews, internet shutdowns, and military deployment, while rights groups report abductions, arrests, and disappearances. The unrest has disrupted trade and spilled over borders, with unprecedented levels of violence and repression reported.
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Tanzania election protests: Opposition says hundreds killed amid unrest
- Protests erupted across Tanzania during the general elections, with opposition alleging electoral fraud. 7s
- The Chadema opposition party claims around 700 protesters and more than a dozen police officers have been killed. 25s
- Restrictions on rights groups, press, and internet have made independent verification difficult. 49s
- Clashes have halted trade at the Kenya border and led to the burning of the Kasamulu border post with Malawi. 56s
- Rights groups report increased repression, with dozens arrested, killed, or disappeared in recent months. 1m 50s
References
Protests erupted during general elections, which the opposition claims are a sham. Demonstrators demand electoral reforms and the president's resignation. The opposition, barred from participating, reports hundreds killed. Years of repression have worsened, with arrests, killings, and disappearances.
Unrest intensified after the opposition rejected election results, alleging fraud, especially in Zanzibar. Military deployment and internet shutdown followed, as protests spread nationwide. Demonstrations began over harassment of opposition leaders and lack of credible alternatives.
Violence stems from demands for electoral reforms and the resignation of President Samir Seluhu Hassan. The opposition was barred from elections, leading to deadly clashes. Rights groups report intensified repression and difficulty verifying information due to restrictions.
Post-electoral unrest has spilled into Kenya, with Tanzanian protesters fleeing police. Tear gas was thrown across the border, businesses closed, and internet blackout imposed. Amnesty International warns that restricting information could escalate tensions.
Violence erupted after major opposition candidates were barred from elections. Protesters ransacked polling stations, expressing anger over an unfair process. The government imposed a curfew, cut off internet, and deployed the military. Opposition leaders are jailed or in hiding.
Much of the press is barred, and opposition officials are in hiding. Over 60 abductions and disappearances reported. Amnesty International describes a wave of terror against critics, with government denying abuses. Security forces warn against inciting violence online.