Tanzania’s Opposition Rejects Election as “Fake” Amid Deadly Unrest
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – Tanzania’s main opposition party, CHADEMA, has formally rejected the official results of the recent presidential election, labeling them as “fake” and “illegitimate” following a vote that has plunged the nation into violent protests and a severe military crackdown.
The crisis erupted after the electoral commission announced that President Samia Suluhu Hassan had won re-election in the October 28-29 vote with a staggering 97.66% of the vote. The declaration prompted immediate accusations of fraud from the opposition and has led to demonstrations that human rights groups say have left at least 500 people dead.
In an interview with DW, CHADEMA secretary Deogratias Munishi categorically denied the legitimacy of the process. “No real election took place in Tanzania,” Munishi stated, casting profound doubt on President Suluhu Hassan’s declared victory.
The political dispute has spilled onto the streets, with protesters in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, torching government buildings and clashing with security forces. The demonstrations represent the most significant challenge to the government in decades. In response, authorities have imposed a military curfew and an internet blackout in an attempt to restore order.
The unrest has also drawn regional attention, with officials in neighboring Kenya, such as Siaya Governor James Orengo, expressing solidarity with the calls for reform. The fallout has even reached the world of celebrity; popular singer Diamond Platinumz, who campaigned for President Suluhu, faced significant public backlash and threats, forcing him to flee to Mombasa, Kenya, before reportedly departing for Dubai.
The situation remains tense as the government maintains its security measures while the opposition demands the president’s resignation and a new, credible electoral process.
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