“This Was Not a Free Election” – AU Slams Tanzania Poll as Deadly Protests Raise Alarm

The African Union observer mission has questioned the credibility of Tanzania’s recent election. The team says the October 29 vote did not meet democratic standards. This statement has intensified public anger and renewed scrutiny over the process.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner. She received 98% of the vote. Opposition groups and activists say the election was unfair and designed to block real competition. They accuse the government of silencing critics and limiting political participation.

The AU mission reported several irregularities. Observers saw ballot stuffing at multiple polling stations. Some voters received more than one ballot paper. Party agents were missing in many centers. During counting, some observers were ordered to leave. These actions raised serious transparency concerns.

The government insists the election was fair. Officials say the process was lawful and professionally managed. They argue that critics are trying to undermine the outcome.

The aftermath has been tense. CHADEMA, the main opposition party, was barred from participating. The party claims hundreds of people were killed in protests that followed. Civil society groups fear the number is much higher. They say reporting the truth has become dangerous.

Boniface Mwabukusi, president of the Tanganyika Law Society, estimates that over 1,000 people may have died. He says this figure is based on information from contacts across the country. He also says many people are too afraid to speak out. The government denies such high numbers. President Samia admitted deaths occurred but called the reported toll exaggerated.

The AU is calling for reforms. It says the root causes of the crisis must be addressed. The mission says Tanzania needs stronger safeguards to protect voting rights. It also says political freedoms must be restored to prevent future unrest.

Tension remains high. Many citizens want accountability. Analysts warn that how the government responds now will shape Tanzania’s political future. The situation continues to draw international attention, as the country faces growing pressure to rebuild trust with its people and the global community.