EU Raises Concern Over Post-Election Violence In Tanzania
Politics Updated: 02 November 2025 18:49 EAT
Tanzania presidential elect Samia Suluhu
The European Union has raised serious concern over reports of violence and unrest that followed Tanzania’s recent general elections, urging authorities to act with restraint and ensure respect for human rights. In a statement released on November 2 by the EU High Representative, the bloc said it had taken note of the election results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission and the Zanzibar Electoral Commission but expressed concern about the credibility of the process.
According to the EU, the elections were marred by incidents of violence, intimidation, and the detention of opposition figures, alongside reports of abductions and disappearances. It also cited the temporary internet shutdown and restrictions on communication as factors that limited transparency and free expression during the electoral period. The bloc described these developments as “deeply troubling” and inconsistent with democratic norms.
The EU has called for the immediate release of detained politicians and activists, and for all those arrested to be guaranteed a fair and transparent judicial process. It further urged Tanzanian authorities to conduct thorough investigations into all reported cases of violence and human rights abuses to ensure accountability and justice for the victims.
In its statement, the EU encouraged the government to strengthen its commitment to a truly inclusive multi-party system by promoting dialogue with opposition parties and civil society organizations. The bloc emphasized that open political competition and respect for dissent are vital for national unity and long-term stability.
The European Union reaffirmed its continued partnership with Tanzania under the EU–OACPS Samoa Agreement but noted that this cooperation must be grounded in mutual respect for democratic principles, the rule of law, and fundamental freedoms. The statement comes amid growing international scrutiny over the conduct of Tanzania’s elections and the government’s handling of post-election protests.
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD