EU Calls for Restraint After Tanzanian Election Violence
The European Union urged Tanzanian authorities on Sunday to show maximum restraint to protect human lives amid unrest following the re-election of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
"The EU is deeply concerned by the violence, the internet shutdown, and reports of irregularities in the electoral process in certain areas," said EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas in an official statement.
"Reliable reports indicating a significant number of deaths and serious injuries are extremely troubling. The EU urges the authorities to exercise maximum restraint in order to preserve human lives," she added.
Opposition Rejects Election Results
Tanzania's main opposition party, Chadema, on Sunday rejected President Hassan's landslide win. The final results showed Hassan's party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi, securing 97.66% of the vote.
Chadema, barred from running for refusing to sign a code of conduct, called the election results false and illegitimate.
"Chadema strongly rejects the so-called election results announced by the National Electoral Commission. These results have no basis in reality, as the truth is that no genuine election took place in Tanzania."
In a social media post, Chadema added:
"The countrywide demonstrations are clear proof that citizens did not take part in what is being called an election, and that they reject anyone emerging from this flawed electoral process."
Summary
The EU condemns post-election violence and urges restraint, while the main opposition claims the election was neither free nor fair.
Author's Note
This situation highlights the ongoing political tension in Tanzania and the critical need for transparent electoral processes to maintain peace and trust.