The Tanzanian authorities have come under fire from Amnesty International for the use of force against protesters during the country’s general elections. Two people were killed and several others injured in the violence, prompting the human rights organization to call for an immediate investigation into the matter.
According to Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, “Reports that one general member of the public and one police officer have been killed during election day protests across Tanzania are deeply disturbing. The risk of further escalation is high – we urge the police to exercise restraint and refrain from using unnecessary and excessive force against protesters.”
The protests were sparked by calls for a boycott of the general elections, with demonstrators taking to the streets to express their discontent. However, the police responded with force, leading to the deaths and injuries. Amnesty International is urging the authorities to conduct a thorough and independent investigation into the use of lethal force against protesters, and to hold those responsible accountable.
“The Tanzanian authorities must promptly conduct a thorough and independent investigation into the unlawful use of lethal force against protesters, and the perpetrators must be held accountable,” Chagutah emphasized.
In addition to the violence, there were reports of a nationwide internet disruption in Tanzania, which Amnesty International warns could further inflame the situation. “A reported nationwide internet disruption in Tanzania threatens to further inflame the situation. The authorities must allow unrestricted access to information both online and offline by ensuring full internet access and allowing local and international media to report freely on the election,” Chagutah said.
The human rights organization emphasized that the authorities have a constitutional responsibility to respect the human rights of all citizens before, during, and after the elections. “The authorities have a constitutional responsibility to respect the human rights of all before, during and after the elections,” Chagutah reiterated.
As the situation continues to unfold, Amnesty International is calling on the Tanzanian authorities to prioritize the safety and rights of its citizens, and to ensure that those responsible for the violence are held accountable.
