“Peace Must Be Protected at All Costs”: President Samia Suluhu Condemns Violence

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu delivered a strong speech during her inauguration in Dodoma. She addressed the unrest that followed the October 29 elections. Her remarks highlighted the government’s commitment to protecting citizens. She urged peace, unity, and national cohesion. Suluhu also extended condolences to families affected by the violence and acknowledged reports from election observers.

Suluhu won a second term with a landslide victory, taking 97.66% of the votes, according to the electoral commission. However, the polls were marred by deadly unrest and widespread criticism. Speaking on Monday, November 3, she expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and destruction of property.

“The chaos and violence witnessed is not Tanzania,” she said. She stressed that the incidents did not reflect the nation’s values. She revealed that several arrested protesters were foreign nationals. “It did not surprise us to see that some of the youth arrested for this behaviour are coming from outside Tanzania,” Suluhu noted.

The president warned those who incited violence. She urged dialogue over confrontation. “I am warning, as a mother, all those who disrupted peace. Chaos and breach of peace only test strength and defense capabilities. Dialogue fosters unity. Let us choose what truly matters, because the safety of our country is protected by all of us—with all our strength and at any cost,” she stated.

Suluhu called on citizens to uphold Tanzania’s principles of unity and solidarity. She reminded the nation that peace must be protected to safeguard lives and property. “Let us continue to safeguard our ideology of unity and cohesion. Those of us who wish this country well are saddened by the events that led to loss of lives and destruction of public and private property,” she added.

Her address combined reassurance, warning, and a call to national responsibility. She highlighted both domestic and foreign elements in the unrest. Suluhu emphasized vigilance and cooperation. As Tanzania begins her second term, her message reinforced that stability, dialogue and unity remain essential for the nation’s progress.