Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has publicly defended the actions of the country’s security forces following allegations that they killed unarmed protesters during recent electoral unrest. The demonstrations, which erupted in several regions, were triggered by public frustration, claims of political interference, and concerns over the credibility of the electoral process.
In a statement addressing the growing criticism, President Hassan said the security operations were necessary to prevent what she described as attempts to destabilize the government.
She argued that the crackdown was essential to stop “efforts to overthrow the government,” though she did not provide evidence to support the claim.
Human rights organizations, opposition figures, and international observers have raised concerns after reports emerged suggesting that over a thousand people may have been killed or injured during the government’s response to the protests. Videos circulating online show civilians fleeing tear gas, bullets, and heavy security deployments, further fueling international scrutiny.
Citizens interviewed by DW News expressed a deep sense of despair, with many saying that “people have lost hope” due to ongoing restrictions on freedom of expression, arrests of activists, and the violent suppression of demonstrations. Critics argue that the government’s heavy-handed response is eroding democratic space and silencing legitimate political grievances.
The president, however, insists that public order must be maintained and has accused unnamed “foreign actors” and internal “troublemakers” of exploiting the election period to incite chaos. Her administration has rejected accusations of systematic abuses, saying that security forces are acting within the law.
Despite the government’s stance, international bodies—including the African Union, the European Union, and multiple human rights groups—have called for transparent investigations into the killings and for Tanzania to protect constitutional freedoms.
As the controversy grows, analysts warn that Tanzania risks isolating itself diplomatically if the government fails to address public grievances and rising concerns over human rights violations. The situation continues to evolve, with many Tanzanians hoping for dialogue, accountability, and a peaceful resolution to the political tensions gripping the country.
