Demands for post-poll justice as Tanzania accused of weaponising counterterrorism laws

LONDON, England 

On the first anniversary of Tanzania’s October 29, 2025 general election crackdown, Amnesty International aaccused Tanzania government of weaponizing counterterrorism laws to silence critics, suppress free expression, and instill fear.

A government-led Commission of Inquiry (whose report was handed over in April 2026 but kept from public release) acknowledged at least 518 deaths from unnatural causes—mostly gunshot wounds—along with over 2,200 injuries and 245 missing persons. 

The main opposition party CHADEMA estimates the death toll is much higher, between 1,000 and 2,000 people. President Suluhu has blamed the unrest on foreign plots to overthrow her government.

The global human rights movement that investigates, campaigns and pushes for laws to protect people when their fundamental freedoms are violated reported that not a single security or government official has been criminally investigated, prosecuted, or punished for the excessive use of force during the protests.

Between September 3 and September 17, 2026, Amnesty International documented arbitrary arrests and identified charge sheets showing at least 64 people charged under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. Affected individuals include CHADEMA members, university students, and academics (such as a University of Dodoma lecturer arrested over Saba Saba Day protests).

Human rights groups point to regular bans on political rallies, targeted social media restrictions, and media sanctions as evidence of a shrinking civic space.

Families affected by the violence and injured survivors (such as Meshack Sane, who was shot in the leg) have appealed to the BBC and authorities for public answers, accountability, and financial assistance with overwhelming hospital bills. 

Commemorating the day, the U.S. Embassy to Tanzania, William Tranchman said the incident will not be swept under the rug.

"The US Embassy community joined me to honor the memory of all those who lost their lives in the violence surrounding Tanzania’s October 2025 general elections. We remember them, and the families who still grieve and seek answers. As I said to the U.S. Senate during my confirmation hearing, this will not be swept under the rug." He insisted.