Tanzania President Hassan Sworn In After Unrest
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Samia Suluhu Hassan Sworn In for Second Term Amidst Violence adn Disputed Election in Tanzania
Table of Contents
updated November 3, 2024
What Happened: The Disputed Election and Inauguration
Tanzanian President Samia suluhu Hassan was sworn in for a second term on November 3, 2024, in a ceremony held at military parade grounds in Dodoma. This inauguration follows an election widely condemned by the opposition and international observers as a sham, and was conducted under tight security. Unlike previous inaugurations, this event was closed to the public and broadcast solely on state television.
Official results declared Samia Hassan the winner with 98% of the vote. However, this outcome is heavily disputed due to the limited opposition allowed to participate. Key rival candidates were either imprisoned or barred from running, effectively ensuring Hassan’s victory.
The period surrounding the election was marred by widespread protests and a violent crackdown by security forces. A nationwide internet shutdown, implemented on election day, has severely restricted access to facts and hindered independent verification of events.
The Scale of the Violence and Reported Casualties
Reports of violence following the election are deeply concerning. While the Tanzanian authorities have attempted to downplay the extent of the unrest, credible sources indicate a significant loss of life.
Chadema, the main opposition party, claims that at least 800 people were killed in clashes with security forces by Saturday, november 2nd. A diplomatic source speaking to the BBC corroborated these claims, stating there is evidence of at least 500 deaths. The UN human rights office has reported at least 10 deaths in three cities, though they acknowledge the true number is highly likely much higher.
The difficulty in obtaining accurate information due to the internet shutdown and restrictions on media access makes a precise death toll impossible to determine at this time.
The unrest has had a significant impact on the Tanzanian economy and daily life. Prices of essential goods – food, fuel, and other necessities - have more than doubled or tripled in many areas. This surge in prices is exacerbating hardship for ordinary citizens.
Schools and colleges have been closed, and public transportation has been halted, further disrupting daily routines and economic activity. The overall climate of fear and uncertainty is highly likely to have long-term consequences for the country.
International Response and Concerns
The international community has expressed serious concerns about the transparency of the election and the violent aftermath. Observers have questioned the fairness of the process and called for an independent examination into the allegations of violence and human rights abuses.
Regional leaders, including the presidents of Somalia, Zambia, Mozambique, and Burundi, attended the inauguration ceremony, signaling a degree of regional acceptance despite the controversies.Though, many international organizations and governments have refrained from offering full endorsement of the election results.