Tanzania is facing growing tension after a court ruling confirmed that more than 340 individuals, including politicians, activists, and social media influencers, will be charged with treason following last month’s disputed elections.
If convicted, the group could face the death penalty, sparking outrage both locally and internationally.
According to court documents, the accused were among thousands arrested during post-election protests that turned deadly after President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with an overwhelming 98% of the vote.
The protests, which spread across major cities including Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Arusha, were met with a heavy security response that left hundreds dead and scores missing.
Prosecutors claim the accused conspired to “overthrow a legitimate government,” insisting that their protests were “acts of rebellion against state authority.”
However, human rights organizations and opposition leaders have condemned the charges, describing them as a politically motivated attempt to silence dissent.
Opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who was barred from contesting the election and later detained on similar charges, remains in custody despite mounting international pressure for his release.
The United Nations and Amnesty International have already called on the Tanzanian government to drop the treason charges and conduct transparent investigations into the post-election violence.
Families of the accused have described the situation as heartbreaking and unjust, claiming that many of those arrested were peaceful demonstrators.
Lawyers representing the detainees said they will appeal the decision, arguing that the charges lack sufficient evidence and violate constitutional rights.
The ruling has further deepened Tanzania’s political crisis, casting doubt on President Suluhu’s commitment to democracy, rule of law, and human rights in the country.
By Newshub