Tanzania is taking steps to apprehend key opposition figures it holds responsible for the fatal demonstrations that engulfed the nation amidst the recent presidential and parliamentary elections. The government has refuted claims made by the main opposition party, Chadema, and certain human rights activists, alleging that security forces were involved in the deaths of over 1,000 individuals, while refraining from providing its own casualty count.
In response to the unrest, law enforcement officials have identified 10 individuals being sought in connection with the investigations, following the charging of 145 individuals with treason by prosecutors. A police spokesperson emphasized ongoing efforts in collaboration with other security agencies to locate and apprehend those involved in planning and executing the disturbances.
Among the individuals being sought for arrest are Chadema’s secretary general, John Mnyika, deputy Amaan Golugwa, and communications head Brenda Rupia. Chadema and the mentioned officials did not immediately respond to the police statement.
The protests, largely instigated by the exclusion of Chadema’s leader Tundu Lissu and another prominent opposition candidate from the electoral race, have raised concerns. The incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with nearly 98% of the votes and was inaugurated on Monday.
African Union observers have criticized the election process, citing concerns of ballot box stuffing, while the government maintains that the election was conducted fairly. The outbreak of violent demonstrations on October 29 across various cities and regions resulted in injuries and damages to both private and public properties, including bank facilities and government premises.
Image: Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan during her swearing-in ceremony in Dodoma, Tanzania’s capital, on Monday.
