Unrest, Deaths, and Internet Shutdown Disrupt Tanzanian Elections - October 2025

Tanzania's general election has been marred by protests, violence, and accusations of democratic backsliding. President Samia Suluhu Hassan ordered a nationwide night curfew and blocked internet services following unrest. Protests erupted along the Kenya-Tanzania border at Namanga, with the Kenyan government issuing a warning against participation. The European Parliament declared the elections "not free and fair," citing fraud and the arrest of opposition leader Tundu Lissu. Amid the unrest, Amnesty International confirmed the deaths of a police officer and a civilian during protests on October 29. Following the election, the Tanzanian government ordered all civil servants to work from home.

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They Are Not Free And Fair: European Parliament Flags Tanzania Elections

Members of the European Parliament have declared Tanzania's elections "not free and fair," citing widespread fraud, intimidation, and repression, even as incumbent Samia Suluhu heads for a controversial victory. The lawmakers condemned the recent arrest of opposition leader Tundu Lissu on treason charges, demanding his immediate and unconditional release.