Tanzania has cancelled its Independence Day celebrations on December 9, with funds instead being redirected to rebuild infrastructure damaged in recent election unrest.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba announced the decision, citing the need for national healing and reconstruction.
The move comes after weeks of protests and violence following the disputed October 29 presidential election, which saw President Samia Suluhu Hassan win with 98% of the vote.
The opposition has described the election as a “mockery of democracy,” with key opponents Tundu Lissu and Luhaga Mpina barred from contesting.
Election observers reported signs of manipulation and democratic shortcomings. The government has set up a commission of inquiry to investigate the unrest, but groups have raised concerns over its independence.
At least 240 people were charged with treason after the protests, but President Hassan has urged leniency and called for national dialogue.
The cancellation of celebrations aims to promote unity and avoid further violence, with Nchemba appealing to Tanzanians to “come together and discuss issues affecting us”.
