Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has called for a full investigation into the violence that followed last month’s presidential election, amid concerns over heavy-handed government responses.
Opposition leaders have condemned her 98% victory as a “mockery of democracy,” and at least 240 people have been charged with treason in connection with the unrest.
Alongside the inquiry, President Samia has urged prosecutors to exercise “leniency” for those arrested. She drew on scripture in her address, saying: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
Her remarks come just days after the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, urged Tanzanian authorities to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation into reports of killings and other serious violations during and after the October 29 elections.
Opposition figures claim that hundreds may have died, though the government has not released an official death toll.
The intensity of the unrest was unexpected in a country long celebrated for stability and order. Speaking in parliament, President Samia stressed that many young people caught up in the protests may not have fully understood the consequences of their actions.
"I am aware that many young people have been arrested and charged with treason. They did not fully understand what they were getting involved in," she said. "As a mother and guardian of this nation, I am directing law-enforcement agencies, especially the DPP's office, to show leniency."
The president also urged political parties to come together to discuss ways to engage in politics without harming the nation. She reaffirmed her commitment to beginning a new process for drafting the country’s constitution.
The demonstrations, largely driven by youth, mirrored global movements of young people challenging entrenched leadership and demanding accountability.
Analysts say the unrest, though unusual in Tanzania, reflected mounting tension due to delayed reforms, simmering youth frustration, internal ruling party disputes, and persistent harassment of opposition leaders.
In the months before the elections, the CCM government took steps to weaken credible opposition. Two main candidates were blocked from running—Tundu Lissu remains detained on treason charges, which he denies, while Luhaga Mpina was disqualified on technical grounds.
During her first term, President Samia had been praised for allowing opposition activities, including rallies and public criticism, without severe reprisals. Her “4R” approach—reconciliation, resilience, rebuilding, and reform—aimed to open Tanzania to the world.
However, in the lead-up to the elections, a wave of arrests, abductions, and targeted killings of opposition members overshadowed reform efforts and raised questions about the future of political reconciliation in Tanzania.
