The recent Tanzanian elections have sparked widespread concern and condemnation from the international community.
U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Jeanne Shaheen, the chairman and ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, have issued a scathing statement regarding the electoral process. Risch and Shaheen noted that the Tanzanian election was predetermined.
“Tanzania’s election was decided well before October 29th,” they noted, highlighting the state-sponsored repression, targeted abductions, and manipulation that marred the polls.
The aftermath of the elections saw Tanzanians take to the streets, expressing their deep frustration and anger over the lack of transparency and fairness.
However, their cries for reform were met with brutal force, as the government’s heavy-handed security response resulted in the deaths of hundreds and the abduction and imprisonment of many more. “Instead of heeding calls for reforms and electoral transparency,” the senators lamented, “the Government of Tanzania’s heavy-handed security response resulted in the death of hundreds and the abduction and imprisonment of many more.”
The situation on the ground is dire, with internet shutdowns disrupting business operations, limiting communications, and leaving Tanzanian citizens isolated. The ruling party’s creation of an environment of fear has far-reaching implications, not just for Tanzania but for neighboring countries as well. As the senators pointed out, “Tanzania’s ruling party has created an environment of fear that challenges the security of the country and neighboring countries.”
Given the significant concerns raised, the senators are calling for a genuine assessment of the U.S.-Tanzania relationship. They noted that for decades, the two countries have enjoyed a partnership built on shared democratic values, global security, economic prosperity, and strategic investment. However, Tanzania’s continued shift away from the rule of law, reform, and good governance necessitates a reevaluation of this relationship. “Tanzania’s continued pivot from the rule of law, reform, and good governance demands a genuine assessment of the U.S. bilateral relationship with Tanzania.”
According to the opposition party Chadema, which boycotted the election, over 700 people were killed during the election, several were injured, and property worth billions was destroyed.
