On Thursday 18th June 2026, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) adopted a resolution demanding that the European Commission withdraw its 2026 funding support proposal for Tanzania.
The European Parliament adopted a resolution, by a show of hands, on the draft Commission implementing decision on the financing of the annual action plan in favour of the United Republic of Tanzania for 2026.
In the text adopted in plenary today, MEPs note the Commission’s decision in November 2025 to suspend the process for the adoption of its decision on financing for Tanzania in the wake of grave concerns expressed by MEPs, particular with regard to the conduct of Tanzania’s fraudulent elections in October 2025 and the violent government suppression of demonstrations that followed, which resulted in the death of over 400 people, and hundreds arrested on charges of treason.
MEPs, however, believe that the concerns expressed in their resolutions, relating to the conduct of Tanzania’s government, have not been taken into account in its decision to proceed with the adoption of the draft implementing decision for 2026.
They point to, among other issues, the continued request of Tanzania’s government to postpone the visit of a delegation of MEPs from Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights. This practice amounts to a refusal of a visit which would have focused on issues relating to human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
MEPs consider the Commission’s draft decision to exceed the powers granted to the Commission in the area, and that it is inconsistent with EU law.
As a consequence, MEPs demand the Commission withdraw its draft implementing decision – which covers €156 million in EU support – and to submit a new draft, while ensuring that any new changes do not adversely affect the inclusive provision of basic services to the population, the protection of human rights and democracy or support to civil society organisations.
Following the holding of what MEPs considered fraudulent elections in October 2025, Tanzania’s government violently suppressed public demonstrations. A Tanzanian national commission of inquiry investigating the violence surrounding the elections on 29 October 2025 acknowledged on 23 April 2026 that at least 518 people had died, but failed to identify those responsible, thereby impeding accountability and justice for the victims, and did not make its findings public.
On 8 May 2025 MEPs adopted a plenary resolution on the arrest and risk of execution of Tundu Lissu, Chair of Chadema, Tanzania’s main opposition party, condemning the arrest, expressing grave concern over the politically-motivated charges against him that carry the risk of capital punishment, and calling for the Tanzanian Government to immediately and unconditionally release him, ensuring his safety and his right to a fair trial and legal representation.
