Vote counting is underway in Tanzania following a tense general election that saw violent protests erupt in the commercial capital, prompting a police-ordered curfew and widespread disruptions to internet services.
The electoral process was overshadowed by demonstrations, with videos circulating on social media showing young protesters throwing rocks at security forces and setting a petrol station ablaze. In response, authorities imposed a curfew in Dar es Salaam.
Incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who ascended to the presidency following the 2021 death of her predecessor John Magufuli, is widely projected to consolidate her power in these polls. This election marks her first presidential test, and her administration has been accused of taking a hardline approach in the lead-up to the vote.
The political climate has been charged, with the administration facing accusations of cracking down on dissent. A significant point of contention has been the exclusion of candidates from the two leading opposition parties, CHADEMA and ACT-Wazalendo. Protesters expressed anger over these barred contenders and a reported wave of alleged abductions of government critics.
In response to the allegations, the administration has stated that the election was conducted fairly and has denied accusations of widespread human rights abuses in the pre-election period.
The nation now awaits the results. Preliminary outcomes are anticipated within the next 24 hours, though the Electoral Commission has a window of up to seven days to announce the final tally.
