Tanzania is still grappling with tension and grief following last month’s hotly contested elections held on October 29, which sparked widespread demonstrations across several regions.
The aftermath has drawn strong criticism from religious and civil society leaders, who are calling for accountability and dialogue to restore public confidence in national institutions.
In a strongly worded statement, Archbishop Jude Thaddaeus Ruwa’ichi condemned the killing of citizens who took to the streets to express their political grievances.
Addressing worshippers during a recent Mass, the Archbishop said it was heartbreaking that some protesters were shot dead, while others were allegedly tracked down and killed in their homes long after demonstrations had subsided.
“There are people who were killed while demonstrating, but the punishment for protesting is not being shot dead. That does not reflect the true image of Tanzania. It has no explanation, no forgiveness — it is an abomination before God,” he said.
Human rights defenders have echoed similar sentiments, urging President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration to launch an independent investigation into the alleged extrajudicial killings.
They argue that the right to peaceful assembly is protected under both national and international law and must be respected.
Meanwhile, opposition figures claim the election was marred by irregularities, fueling anger among their supporters. Calls for political dialogue, reconciliation, and reforms continue to intensify as the country seeks a peaceful path forward.
By Kenyans