Widespread unrest broke out across Tanzania on Wednesday as protesters took to the streets during the country’s general elections, setting polling stations and police vehicles ablaze in defiance of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration.
The demonstrations, which erupted in several regions including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Mwanza, were reportedly triggered by allegations of electoral malpractice and growing dissatisfaction with what many describe as shrinking democratic space under Suluhu’s rule.
Eyewitnesses said security forces responded with tear gas and live ammunition to disperse crowds attempting to block access to voting centres. Videos circulating on social media showed thick plumes of smoke rising above polling units and protesters chanting slogans demanding free and fair elections.
Several opposition figures accused the government of orchestrating a crackdown on dissent, citing arrests of party agents and restricted access to certain polling units. In contrast, the police described the protesters as “criminal elements” bent on sabotaging the electoral process.
President Suluhu, who came to power in 2021 following the death of her predecessor John Magufuli, has faced mounting criticism over her handling of political freedoms and economic challenges. The unrest on Election Day underscores the deep divisions and frustration among many Tanzanians over governance and accountability.
