Tanzania Minister Denies Chaos, Says Dar es Salaam is “Very Peaceful” After Election Unrest

Tanzania’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo has denied reports of chaos in Dar es Salaam following the 2025 General Elections. He insisted the city is “very peaceful,” despite viral videos showing soldiers patrolling streets and reports of internet blackouts.

Kombo said the government’s actions were aimed at maintaining peace, not suppressing citizens. “Dar es Salaam is very, very peaceful,” he told BBC Africa. “The restrictions from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. are only to protect the people. During the day, everyone goes about their work normally.”

However, the calm image painted by the minister contrasts with reports of violence and tension. The United Nations said at least 10 people have been killed, while opposition party CHADEMA claims up to 700 deaths. Kombo dismissed those claims as “wild exaggerations,” saying security forces had the situation under control.

He defended the government’s decision to shut down internet access, calling it a security measure to stop “small groups of vandalists” from spreading chaos online. Kombo added that election observers were given alternative communication channels to ensure proper monitoring of the polls.

The minister also rejected allegations that opposition candidates were unfairly barred from the race. “No major candidate was excluded,” he said. “Those who didn’t participate excluded themselves by not signing the fomu ya madili, the required code of conduct.”

Despite Kombo’s assurances, tension remains high in parts of the country. Opposition groups accuse the government of hiding the true scale of the unrest, while analysts warn that continued restrictions could deepen mistrust among citizens.

Still, Kombo insists Tanzania is stable and calm. “People are working, life goes on,” he said. But as images of protests and army patrols continue to circulate online, many Tanzanians question whether the peace he describes truly reflects the mood on the streets.