Tanzania is actively pursuing the arrest of key opposition figures believed to be responsible for the violent protests that erupted across the nation following the recent presidential and parliamentary elections. The opposition party Chadema and certain human rights activists allege that over 1,000 individuals were killed by security forces during the unrest, while the government disputes these figures, although it has not provided an official death toll.
Law enforcement authorities have identified 10 individuals wanted for questioning in connection with the disturbances, following the filing of treason charges against 145 people by prosecutors. A police spokesperson stated that a thorough search is underway, in collaboration with other defense and security agencies, to apprehend those involved in orchestrating the violence.
Among those being sought for arrest are high-ranking members of Chadema, including Secretary General John Mnyika, Deputy Amaan Golugwa, and Communications Head Brenda Rupia. Chadema leaders were not immediately available for comment on the police statement.
The protests were largely fueled by the exclusion of Chadema’s leader, Tundu Lissu, from the ballot earlier in the year, leading to widespread demonstrations. Despite concerns raised by African Union observers regarding the credibility of the election, incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with nearly 98% of the vote and was inaugurated on Monday.
According to police, violent demonstrations erupted in various cities, including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, and Mbeya, as well as in several regions nationwide on October 29. The unrest resulted in injuries to individuals, damage to both private and public property, such as ATMs and government buildings, although specific details were not provided by law enforcement.
The government maintains that the election process was fair, dismissing criticisms of irregularities like ballot box stuffing.