Tanzanian musician Diamond Platnumz has reportedly fled to Mombasa, Kenya, amid growing tensions and protests in Tanzania. The protests follow the country’s recent general election, where President Samia Suluhu was competing with herself. However, the opposition and many citizens claim the election was neither free nor fair.

 

The unrest began after the electoral commission disqualified several opposition candidates, including Tundu Lissu, the leader of the Chadema party, who was barred from running due to treason charges. The opposition claims these charges are politically motivated. With the main opposition candidates out of the race, President Hassan’s victory was widely expected.

 

Diamond Platnumz, a prominent supporter of President Hassan’s re-election bid, had previously deleted posts endorsing her campaign from his social media platforms. However, this move did not seem to appease the protesters, who targeted his properties and threatened him. Reports suggest that Platnumz, along with his mother, other family members, and a delegation of 24 people, sneaked out of Tanzania through Tanga Airport to escape the violence.

The Tanzanian government has responded to the protests with force, imposing a nationwide curfew, shutting down the internet, and deploying security forces to maintain order. The move has drawn criticism from human rights groups and international observers, who argue that the government is suppressing dissent and undermining democracy.

 

The situation in Tanzania remains volatile, with many citizens demanding change and calling for electoral reforms. The international community is watching closely, with the European Parliament and other organizations condemning the government’s actions and urging restraint.

 

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the protests and the demands of its citizens. One thing is certain, however: the people of Tanzania will not be silenced, and their voices will be heard