Tanzania has been thrown into chaos after opposition groups reported that about 700 people were killed in just three days of violent clashes following the country’s recent presidential elections.
According to the main opposition party, Chadema, protests broke out nationwide after key challengers to President Samia Suluhu Hassan were disqualified from the election, leaving voters angry and feeling silenced. Demonstrators accused the government of manipulating the electoral process to block competition and suppress democracy.
John Kitoka, Chadema’s spokesperson, told international media that hundreds of people have been killed across major cities like Dar es Salaam and Mwanza. He said the death toll could rise further because many killings reportedly occur during night-time curfews enforced by the army and police.
Amnesty International also confirmed receiving reports of widespread violence, saying at least 100 people had been killed by security forces using live bullets and tear gas to disperse crowds.
Kitoka condemned the government’s actions and urged leaders to stop what he called “the massacre of innocent protesters.” He demanded the creation of a transitional government that would guarantee free and fair elections. “Respect the will of the people and end police brutality,” he said.
The unrest began after opposition leaders, including Chadema’s vice-chairman Tundu Lissu and ACT-Wazalendo leader Luhaga Mpina, were barred from contesting. Lissu had earlier been arrested on charges of treason and cybercrime, while Mpina’s candidacy was also rejected by the electoral commission. With top challengers excluded, President Hassan faced only minor opponents.
As anger spread, protesters clashed with security forces, attacking police and destroying property linked to the ruling party. The government responded with a nationwide curfew and internet shutdowns to control communication.
The United Nations Human Rights Office expressed deep concern over the reported killings and called on Tanzanian authorities to stop using excessive force. UN officials confirmed receiving credible reports of deaths in Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro.
Tanzanian human rights lawyer Tito Magoti described the situation as “unjustified and heartbreaking,” urging the president to listen to the people’s voices. “The mood in the country shows that citizens feel this was not a real election,” he said.
Despite heavy military and police presence, protesters continue to demand justice, transparency, and the restoration of democratic freedoms. The crisis has drawn international condemnation and raised fears of deeper instability if government repression continues.