Tanzania has cancelled its annual Independence Day celebrations, redirecting the budget toward repairing infrastructure destroyed during recent political turmoil. The decision comes amid rising national tension over what many describe as Tanzania election unrest following the country’s disputed polls.
Government Responds to Tanzania Election Unrest
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba announced that this year’s 9 December celebrations would not take place. He said the funds would instead help rebuild areas damaged during protests sparked by last month’s election. Opposition groups had planned to use Independence Day to hold mass demonstrations demanding justice for those killed during the unrest.
Opposition leaders claim that hundreds of people lost their lives in the crackdown that followed the disputed vote. The government has not released an official toll but has created a commission of inquiry to investigate the events, though critics question its independence.
Disputed Polls Deepen Tanzania Election Unrest
President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with 98% of the vote. However, the election excluded her two main challengers: Tundu Lissu, detained on treason charges, and Luhaga Mpina, whose candidacy was rejected. Election observers later reported signs of manipulation and democratic shortcomings.
During the election period, authorities imposed a five-day internet shutdown, restricted sharing of protest footage, and warned citizens against posting images from the demonstrations. Despite these measures, graphic videos and photographs of dead civilians spread widely on social media, many verified by international news outlets.
Government Calls for Calm After Tanzania Election Unrest
Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa said the inquiry would reveal the truth but insisted the country remained safe. Meanwhile, at least 240 people arrested for protesting were charged with treason, though many have since been released after the president urged prosecutors to show leniency.
While cancelling the celebrations, Prime Minister Nchemba urged the public to choose dialogue over violence. He also appealed for national unity, warning that the consequences of renewed conflict would be severe.
Political Space Continues to Shrink
President Samia, who took office in 2021, was initially praised for easing the heavy-handed approach of her predecessor. However, in recent years, Tanzania’s political space has tightened again, with opposition voices facing increased pressure.
The cancellation of Independence Day celebrations marks another significant moment in Tanzania’s ongoing political tensions, reflecting the deep national divisions brought to the surface by the recent vote.
