Tanzania is facing mounting challenges after violent protests erupted following the recent presidential elections, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has said, admitting that the unrest has damaged the country’s image abroad.
Speaking during the swearing-in of her new cabinet, she cautioned that the violence could slow the nation’s development and affect international relations.
"In the first term, we used to get loans from outside due to our stability and the progress we made. But the stain we brought upon ourselves could now hinder that," Samia said, stressing that reliance on domestic resources and the country’s natural wealth must now take priority.
Samia, who became president in 2021 following the death of John Magufuli, initially received praise for easing political restrictions. Yet, the political environment has narrowed once again, especially after the October 29 elections, in which she was declared the winner with 98% of the vote. The opposition, barred from contesting, dismissed the poll as a "mockery of democracy."
Reports suggest that security forces violently suppressed demonstrations, leading to hundreds of deaths under the cover of a five-day internet blackout.
Key opposition figures were jailed or disqualified, and at least 240 people were charged with treason. Gruesome images and videos circulated online, showing the scale of the unrest.
Last week, Samia ordered an official investigation into the post-election violence and encouraged prosecutors to consider reducing or dropping charges against those not directly involved in the protests.
Efforts to restore dialogue and unity will be led by Lazarus Chakwera, former president of Malawi and Commonwealth envoy.
During his four-day visit, he is expected to hold discussions with government officials, opposition leaders, civil society organizations, religious and traditional authorities, and diplomats. Shirley Botchwey, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, described Chakwera’s mission as a chance to promote "constructive dialogue."
The new cabinet reshuffle also reflects a focus on governance and economic recovery. Samia’s daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, was appointed deputy education minister, while her husband, Mohamed Mchengerwa, continues as health minister. Seven former ministers have lost their positions, highlighting the administration’s renewed focus on leadership effectiveness.
Samia warned her ministers that economic pressures could intensify in the next term, urging them to adopt domestic strategies to maintain stability and growth. "We must focus on mobilising domestic resources and harnessing our God-given resources," she said, stressing the need to strengthen Tanzania from within.
