Western nations urge Tanzania to release bodies of victims following post-election violence

Several Western embassies in Tanzania, including the United Kingdom and France, have demanded that the government release the bodies of individuals killed during the violent unrest following the October elections to their families. In a joint statement, 17 diplomatic missions cited credible reports indicating extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and the concealment of bodies amid the unrest.

The Tanzanian government has not responded publicly. The appeal comes shortly after President Samia Suluhu Hassan criticized Western countries, accusing them of interfering in Tanzanias internal affairs.

Reports suggest that hundreds may have died during the post-election violence, although official figures have not been released. Security forces cracked down on mass protests after the 29 October presidential election, which saw President Samia claim victory with nearly 98% of the vote. The main opposition candidates were barred from running, triggering widespread anger and accusations that the election was undemocratic. Authorities also implemented an internet blackout and warned citizens against sharing protest images.

President Samia has defended the elections legitimacy and rejected criticism of her human rights record. At least 240 individuals were charged with treason in connection with the protests, though many have reportedly been released after the president urged prosecutors to exercise leniency. Opposition leader Tundu Lissu remains in detention after being charged with treason earlier this year.

In their statement, the coalition of Western embassies called for the release of political detainees and guaranteed access to legal and medical assistance. We urge the authorities to urgently return all bodies of those killed to their families, the statement said, adding that any investigation into the violence must be independent, transparent, and inclusive, involving civil society, faith-based groups, and political stakeholders. The embassies also emphasized the importance of upholding international obligations to protect fundamental freedoms and Tanzanians constitutional rights to access information and express themselves freely.

The statement reflects increasing international pressure over alleged human rights violations during the contested elections. UN human rights spokesperson Seif Magango reported that since mid-November, dozens of academics, civil society actors, and local political figures have been detained, some by unidentified armed personnel. He confirmed that hundreds were reportedly killed and over 2,000 arrested following the demonstrations, calling for the immediate release of all arbitrarily detained individuals.

The United States announced it is reassessing its relationship with Tanzania due to the governments harsh crackdown on protesters, highlighting concerns about the safety of citizens and regional stability. In a recent address, President Samia defended the use of force against protesters, accusing unnamed foreign actors of attempting to orchestrate regime change without presenting evidence. She stated that the government is prepared to confront any new demonstrations planned for next week.

President Samia, who became Tanzanias first female leader in 2021 following the death of John Magufuli, was initially lauded for easing political repression, though recent developments suggest the political climate has tightened.

Author: Jackson Miller