The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has officially taken the oath of office for a second term, in a ceremony marked by heavy security and limited public access, following a disputed election that sparked deadly protests.
Unlike previous inaugurations held in open stadiums, this year’s swearing-in took place at a military parade ground in Dodoma, attended only by invited guests and regional leaders. The public was barred from attending, though the event was broadcast live on state television.
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President Samia, who assumed office in 2021 after the death of John Magufuli, was declared the winner with 98% of the vote. The election faced strong criticism after key opposition candidates were jailed or disqualified, effectively leaving her with minimal competition.
International observers and human rights groups have raised alarm over alleged election irregularities and post-election violence, with opposition parties claiming that hundreds were killed in clashes with security forces.
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While official reports have downplayed the figures, independent sources told the BBC that at least 500 people may have died, and the opposition party Chadema claimed over 800 fatalities.
The situation has been worsened by a nationwide internet shutdown, restricting communication and independent verification of events.
During her victory speech, President Samia defended the polls as “free and democratic”, describing the protesters as “unpatriotic.”
Economic hardship has deepened in the wake of the unrest, with food and fuel prices soaring, schools and public transport suspended, and tensions running high in several regions.
Police have blamed foreign nationals and local motorbike operators for the chaos, claiming some entered the country illegally to “cause instability.” Reports also suggest that several Kenyan nationals are missing, with one Kenyan teacher allegedly killed during the violence.
Global concern continues to mount — the UN, EU, and Pope Leo XIV have all called for peace, restraint, and accountability in Tanzania.
Opposition leaders Tundu Lissu (currently detained on treason charges) and Luhaga Mpina (barred from running) rejected the election results, describing them as “a complete fabrication.”
Since independence, Tanzania’s ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and its predecessor Tanu have never lost an election. Rights organisations, including Amnesty International, accused the government of orchestrating a “wave of terror” against opponents before the vote — allegations that the administration continues to deny.
President Samia’s new term begins under a cloud of controversy, as calls for justice, reform, and national dialogue grow louder both within and outside Tanzania.
