As Tanzania emerges from the shadows of the October 29 post-election unrest, a renewed push for accountability, dialogue, and national reconciliation is gaining momentum among political leaders, civil society, and religious organizations.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who was officially sworn in for a new term on November 3 in Dodoma, has urged the nation to “heal together and move forward,” calling on Tanzanians to embrace peace and rebuild public trust after a divisive and turbulent election period.
“Our democracy is still young, and moments like these test our unity,” President Samia said in her inauguration speech. “We must reflect, learn, and ensure that never again will differences in opinion turn into differences in humanity.”
Calls for accountability and reform
In the aftermath of the unrest, which left dozens injured and several reportedly dead, human rights advocates and political observers are calling for transparent investigations into the conduct of security forces, the fairness of the electoral process, and incidents of violence in multiple regions.
The Tanzania Human Rights Coalition (THRC), in a statement released Thursday, urged the government to establish an independent inquiry to review cases of alleged excessive force and to hold perpetrators accountable.
“Tanzania cannot afford impunity. True peace is founded on justice,” the statement read.
Similarly, opposition parties—including CHADEMA and ACT-Wazalendo—have called for an open dialogue process mediated by neutral institutions to address the grievances that fueled the protests.
“This is not a time for revenge; it’s a time for national reflection,” said CHADEMA chairperson Freeman Mbowe. “We must have an honest conversation about electoral reforms, civic rights, and accountability.”
Religious and civic leaders join the peace chorus
The country’s main faith-based organizations have also stepped in, encouraging both government and opposition leaders to place reconciliation above politics.
The Tanzania Episcopal Conference and National Muslim Council (BAKWATA) jointly released a statement calling for forgiveness and structured national dialogue.
“We must remember that our nation’s strength lies in unity and compassion,” said Sheikh Hamis Kitojo of BAKWATA. “We cannot heal by ignoring wounds; we must treat them.”
Election observers highlight systemic gaps
Preliminary reports from domestic and international election observers have identified gaps in the management of polling stations, tallying procedures, and voter communication. These findings have fueled calls for electoral reforms to enhance transparency and trust ahead of future elections.
“The goal is not to discredit the process,” said Dr. Asha Nchimbi, a political scientist at the University of Dar es Salaam, “but to strengthen institutions so that elections cease to be flashpoints of division.”
Government’s response and way forward
In response, the newly inaugurated government has pledged to prioritize dialogue, institutional reforms, and economic recovery. Officials from the Ministry of Constitutional Affairs have hinted at plans to establish a national task force on reconciliation and democratic reform—a move that has been welcomed cautiously by civil society.
President Samia has also directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to review the actions of law enforcement agencies during the unrest and to ensure that all officers operate under strict adherence to the rule of law.
“Justice will not be selective,” she emphasized. “We will look into every claim and ensure fairness for all.”
Citizens call for psychological healing
Beyond political debates, many Tanzanians say the emotional scars of the unrest run deep. Psychologists and community leaders have warned of widespread trauma, particularly among youths and families who witnessed violence firsthand.
Community-based organizations have started offering counselling sessions and peace education programs in urban centers such as Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Arusha to help people process the recent turmoil and rebuild trust in institutions.
“Healing begins when people feel heard and protected,” said Dr. Salome Gregory, a psychologist with the Dar Resilience Initiative.
A nation at a crossroads
As Tanzania looks to the future, the central question remains whether its leaders—both in power and opposition—can turn the pain of October’s chaos into an opportunity for national renewal.
Analysts agree that accountability, open dialogue, and genuine reform will determine whether the country restores its image as one of East Africa’s most stable democracies or continues to wrestle with cycles of mistrust.
For now, the world watches as Tanzania writes its next chapter—one that will test not only its political maturity but also its collective conscience.
