Tanzania’s main city, Dar es Salaam, is slowly returning to normal after police lifted a night-time curfew imposed following violent post-election protests. The curfew had been in place since last Wednesday, when unrest erupted over a disputed presidential election.
Citywide Shutdown and Internet Blackout
The protests triggered a nationwide internet shutdown, closure of shops, halted public transport, and school closures. Acute shortages of essentials and soaring prices gripped Dar es Salaam. Although some shops reopened on Tuesday, long queues persisted at petrol stations.
Contested Election and Missing Opposition Voices
President Samia Suluhu Hassan was sworn in on Monday after winning 98% of the vote. However, observers from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) said the election fell short of democratic standards. Opposition leaders Tundu Lissu and Luhaga Mpina were barred from contesting—Lissu is detained on treason charges, while Mpina’s candidacy was rejected on technical grounds.
Mounting Death Toll and Disappearances
Chadema, Lissu’s party, claims over 800 deaths, while a diplomatic source cited at least 500. The UN reported at least 10 deaths in three cities. The government has not released official figures.
Chadema’s deputy chairman, John Heche, has gone missing after being taken from a police station in Dodoma. His family and party are deeply concerned about his safety.
A doctor at Muhimbili Hospital reported that bodies were being collected at night by vehicles marked “Municipal Burial Services” and taken to unknown destinations. Survivors were allegedly removed from emergency wards before recovery.
Personal Tragedies and International Concern
Mama Kassim, a Tanzanian mother, has not seen her two sons since polling day. A Kenyan family is seeking repatriation of 33-year-old teacher John Okoth Ogutu, allegedly shot by police while buying food.
Human Rights Watch condemned the government’s “lethal force and other abuses,” while Amnesty International expressed alarm over excessive force used against protesters.
Government Response
President Samia acknowledged the loss of lives and property during her inauguration but blamed foreign nationals for inciting violence. Initially praised for easing repression after taking office in 2021, her administration now faces criticism for narrowing political space.
