Opposition party alleges over 700 killed as protests enter third day after disputed election; authorities impose curfew and restrict media access.
At least 700 people have reportedly been killed in Tanzania as mass protests sweep across the country in response to a disputed presidential election. The demonstrations, now in their third day, erupted after the announcement of results in favor of incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The unrest followed widespread allegations of fraud, the disqualification of several opposition candidates, and the detention of others in the lead-up to the vote. The protests have been met with a forceful response from security forces, prompting fierce international scrutiny.
According to Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chadema, the death toll from the clashes has risen sharply. John Kitoka, a spokesperson for the party, told reporters on Friday October 31, 2025 that “the overall figure for death is around 700,” citing estimates from across multiple regions. He noted that approximately 350 fatalities occurred in the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, and more than 200 in Mwanza, a major city in the north.
“These numbers are based on reports from our field teams, and the situation remains extremely tense,” Kitoka said, speaking to journalists after what he described as “coordinated violence against demonstrators.”
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The election, held on Wednesday October 29, 2025, has ignited widespread anger among Tanzanians who accuse the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party of undermining democratic processes. President Hassan, who came to power in March 2021, is accused by critics of tightening control over civil liberties and political opposition.
In response to the growing demonstrations, the government has imposed a nationwide curfew and restricted internet access. Foreign journalists have also been banned from covering the unfolding events, further limiting independent reports from the ground.
Despite the clampdown, protests have continued to spread, with demonstrators demanding a fresh election and the release of detained opposition figures. Political analysts warn that the violence could further destabilize one of East Africa’s most politically significant nations.
The international community has yet to issue a unified response, though human rights groups are calling for an immediate investigation into the reported killings. The Tanzanian government has not commented publicly on the reported death toll or the allegations of excessive force by security personnel.
As tensions escalate, the situation remains fluid, with fears that the death toll could climb further in the days ahead.