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Violent protests erupt in Dar es Salaam Amid Presidential elections
Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Dar es Salaam on Wednesday, expressing anger against President Samia Suluhu Hassan as Tanzania held presidential and legislative elections. Demonstrations turned violent, with a police station set on fire and gunshots reported in several neighborhoods. Internet access was blocked in the final hours of voting.
The main opposition parties, including Chadema and ACT Wazalendo, were largely excluded from the election, prompting calls for a boycott. Amnesty International reported a “wave of terror” including forced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and acts of torture in the weeks leading up to the vote.
Despite the unrest, soldiers were seen near the protesters without intervening, appearing to offer implicit protection. Voter turnout was low in Dar es Salaam compared with previous elections, while the president called on citizens to exercise their right to vote.