Tanzania Election Protests Expected to Cause Hundreds of Deaths Amid Opposition Claims

Violence and unrest have engulfed Tanzania following the recent presidential and parliamentary elections, which saw President Samia Suluhu Hassan expected to win amid the exclusion of major opposition candidates. The main opposition party and various sources report that around 700 people have been killed in protests and clashes with security forces, although official figures remain unconfirmed amidst an internet blackout and restricted media access. Demonstrations started in Dar es Salaam and quickly spread nationwide, with protesters attacking police stations, setting fires, and breaching the main airport. Human rights groups and the UN have condemned the use of excessive force and called for restraint, while security forces have imposed curfews and sought to control information. The unrest highlights deep political tensions in Tanzania, with some analysts suggesting the crisis could prompt significant political change. The situation remains volatile as protests continue despite heavy police and military presence.