Omanghana
Tanzania marked one year since its disputed October 2025 election on Thursday, with bereaved families, religious leaders and human rights defenders demanding answers about the violence that left hundreds dead and thousands injured.
The anniversary has renewed scrutiny of investigations into the killings, reported disappearances and alleged excessive use of force by security personnel. Families say accountability remains elusive despite two government-appointed inquiries.
Hundreds of Deaths Recorded
A presidential commission chaired by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman recorded at least 518 deaths, including 21 children and 16 security officers. More than 2,000 people were injured.
The commission submitted its report to President Samia Suluhu Hassan on April 23, 2026. It described the unrest as coordinated violence across 202 locations and identified political grievances, economic hardship and distrust of public institutions among the contributing factors.
However, it did not establish individual responsibility or determine whether security personnel had used force unlawfully.
Families Still Seeking Answers
The violence followed an election campaign marked by restrictions on the opposition. CHADEMA leader Tundu Lissu had been arrested on treason charges in April 2025, and his party was barred from contesting the election.
Investigations into the subsequent crackdown have documented apparent attacks on protesters and people who were not participating in demonstrations. President Hassan has characterized the unrest as an attempt to overthrow the government.
For affected families, unresolved questions include who ordered security operations, what happened to missing relatives and whether those responsible will face prosecution.
Second Inquiry Examines Responsibility
A second commission, chaired by retired judge Shaban Ally Lila, began work on August 7, 2026, with a 150-day mandate.
Its investigation covers deaths, alleged excessive force, unlawful firearm use, serious injuries, property destruction and missing persons. The panel has reported completing evidence collection across districts and examining material to identify those who planned, financed, coordinated or participated in the violence.
Churches Call for Remembrance
The Tanzania Episcopal Conference called for special Masses on October 29 to remember those killed, injured or missing.
Bishop Wolfgang Pisa, the conference’s chairman, urged prayers for affected families and national healing, emphasizing truth, justice and solidarity.
Human rights advocates have also proposed a national remembrance day, while security restrictions surrounding commemorative gatherings have heightened tensions.
UN Experts Demand Publication of Findings
United Nations human rights experts have urged the government to release the first commission’s full report, warning that withholding its findings undermines victims’ rights to truth and justice.
They said no state officials had been charged a year after the violence and called for independent, thorough and impartial investigations. They also urged greater transparency around the second inquiry and publication of its findings once completed.
Source: Omanghana
