Tanzania was thrown into chaos on Wednesday, October 29, after violent protests erupted during the country’s general elections. A police officer and a civilian were killed, according to Amnesty International, which condemned the excessive use of force by security agencies.
The unrest exposed deep cracks in the country’s fragile democracy, as opposition supporters accused the government of manipulating the vote to silence dissent. Videos circulating online showed angry crowds in several cities clashing with police officers, burning barricades, and chanting for justice.
Tanzania Protests Leave Trail of Death and Anger
In a statement late Wednesday, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, confirmed the deaths and urged restraint.
“Reports that one member of the public and one police officer have been killed during election day protests across Tanzania are deeply disturbing,” Chagutah said.
He added, “The risk of further escalation is high—we urge the police to exercise restraint and refrain from using unnecessary and excessive force against protesters.”
The organization called on Tanzanian authorities to protect human rights and avoid turning the elections into a bloodbath. Chagutah warned that any more violence could plunge the nation into instability and damage its international reputation.
Amnesty also demanded an independent investigation into the killings, insisting that justice must be served for both the civilian and the police officer who lost their lives.
Opposition Barred, Citizens Outraged
The protests broke out after the two main opposition presidential candidates, Tundu Lissu of Chadema and Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo, were barred from contesting. Their disqualification angered millions of Tanzanians who viewed the move as a direct attack on democracy.
Citizens took to the streets in major towns including Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, Tunduma, Tanga, and Mwanza. Protesters chanted anti-government slogans, accusing the ruling elite of “rigging the system.”
Videos obtained by Nyakundi Report showed chaotic scenes of burning mattresses, blocked roads, and running battles between police and demonstrators. In one shocking clip, a police officer was seen being physically assaulted by a mob before other officers intervened.
Analysts believe the unrest was a predictable outcome of deep-seated frustration among Tanzanians who feel shut out of the democratic process. The exclusion of popular opposition figures reignited memories of previous election-related crackdowns, where activists and journalists were targeted.
Government Clamps Down on Dissent and Internet Access
In response to the growing unrest, the Tanzanian government imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Dar es Salaam. City Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila warned residents against “any attempts to disrupt the election process,” saying authorities would deal firmly with anyone found inciting chaos.
Despite the curfew, some polling stations were vandalized. Irate youths reportedly tore down ballot boxes and set fire to campaign materials, saying they no longer trusted the system.
Earlier that day, internet monitor NetBlocks confirmed a nationwide internet disruption in Tanzania. The “digital blackout” crippled communication, leaving millions unable to share election updates or contact relatives.
Three major service providers reportedly shut down access, raising suspicion that the blackout was deliberate. Observers said the move was aimed at silencing protesters and blocking information flow about the escalating violence.
Human rights groups called the blackout a violation of citizens’ rights to information and expression. “Cutting off the internet during elections is a tactic of repression,” one digital rights activist said. “It prevents accountability and hides the truth from the world.”
International Outcry and Calls for Accountability
The international community reacted swiftly to the unfolding crisis. Diplomatic missions in Dar es Salaam urged restraint and transparency in handling election disputes.
Amnesty International reiterated its call for justice, urging Tanzanian leaders to uphold democratic principles and the rule of law. “Elections should be a celebration of democracy, not a trigger for bloodshed,” Chagutah noted.
Observers warn that if violence continues, Tanzania risks losing international confidence and investment. Political analysts say the government’s credibility now depends on whether it can restore calm and conduct a transparent electoral process.
Meanwhile, opposition supporters vow to keep protesting until their voices are heard. “We are tired of being silenced,” one protester shouted in a video shared online. “This is our country too.”
The deaths of a police officer and a civilian have cast a dark shadow over Tanzania’s elections, highlighting the growing tension between citizens and state authorities. Whether the government listens or cracks down further will determine the nation’s path in the days ahead.
