KAMPALA, Uganda (AP)
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has secured a contested election victory, garnering over 97% of the votes, as confirmed by official results released early Saturday. This marks an unusual landslide win in the region.
Addressing the Nation
Hassan attended a ceremony in Dodoma, the administrative capital, to receive her certificate from electoral officials. In her speech, she remarked that the results reflect a strong desire among Tanzanians for female leadership.
Call for Unity
Following the election, she emphasized the importance of national unity, stating, “It’s time to unite our country and preserve what we’ve built over more than sixty years.” She assured that all necessary actions would be taken by security agencies to maintain peace.
Election Background
Hassan assumed office in 2021 after her predecessor, John Pombe Magufuli, passed away shortly into his second term. Critics have expressed concerns that the election was not competitive, labeling it a coronation, especially after her main rivals were disqualified from running.
Violence and Protests
The election on October 29 was marred by violence, leading to protests in various cities that disrupted vote counting. The military was deployed to assist police in managing the riots, while internet access was intermittently cut off across the country.
International Concerns
Amidst the tensions, a calm was observed in Dar es Salaam, where security forces checked the IDs of individuals on the streets. The UN and foreign ministers from the U.K., Canada, and Norway have expressed deep concerns over the reported fatalities and injuries related to the government’s response to the protests.
Political Landscape
The ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party has maintained power since Tanzania’s independence in 1961. Rights groups have criticized Hassan for employing authoritarian tactics, suppressing dissent, and restricting freedoms. Despite this, her victory continues the party’s longstanding dominance, as she faces rising opposition movements within the country.
