Western embassies in Tanzania have called on the government to hand over the bodies of people killed during October’s post-election violence. Seventeen missions, including the UK, France, the EU delegation, Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, say they have credible reports of extra judicial killings, disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and the concealment of bodies by security forces.
The diplomats said the violence followed the 29 October presidential election, where President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with nearly 98% of the vote. Opposition candidates were barred from running, triggering widespread anger and mass protests.
Government Sets Up Inquiry as Death Toll Remains Unknown
Tanzania says it has created a commission of inquiry to investigate the “unfortunate events.” Hundreds are reported to have died during the crackdown, but the government has not released an official death toll.
Authorities violently broke up demonstrations, imposed an internet blackout, and warned citizens against sharing protest footage. President Samia has defended the election as fair and rejected criticism of her human rights record.
At least 240 people were charged with treason after the unrest. Many were later released after Samia urged prosecutors to “show leniency.” Opposition leader Tundu Lissu, however, remains jailed on treason charges filed in April.
Diplomats Demand Release of Detainees and Political Prisoners
In their joint statement on Friday, the Western embassies urged Tanzania to free all political prisoners and allow detainees access to legal and medical support. They also called for the immediate release of all bodies to the families of the victims.
While welcoming the decision to launch an investigation, they stressed that the probe must be independent, transparent, and inclusive, involving civil society, religious groups, and political actors.
“We reiterate our call on the government to uphold its international commitments to protect fundamental freedoms,” the statement said.
Growing International Pressure on Tanzania
The criticism comes as global concern mounts over Tanzania’s handling of the disputed election. The UN human rights office says the government has stepped up its crackdown since the vote. Spokesman Seif Magango reported that dozens of academics, civil society members, and local political leaders have been detained — some by unidentified armed personnel.
He said hundreds were killed and more than 2,000 people detained after demonstrations erupted.
The United States has also warned it is reassessing its relationship with Tanzania, saying it “cannot overlook actions” that threaten regional stability.
Tanzania’s foreign ministry responded by urging other countries to wait for the findings of the inquiry before making judgments.
Samia Defiant as More Protests Loom
In a speech on Tuesday, President Samia criticized Western nations for “interference” and defended the state’s heavy use of force, saying protesters had been “ready to overthrow the government.” She also repeated claims — without evidence, that foreign actors were working with opposition groups to push for “regime change.”
Samia said her government is prepared to confront new demonstrations expected next week.
Samia Suluhu Hassan, 65, became Tanzania’s first female president in 2021 after the death of John Magufuli. She was initially praised for opening political space, but critics say repression has deepened in recent years.