What's happened
Tanzania's President Samia Hassan was sworn in on November 3 in Dodoma after a disputed election marked by violence and a nationwide internet blackout. Opposition parties reject the results, claiming no genuine election took place amid reports of hundreds of deaths and ongoing protests.
What's behind the headline?
The inauguration of Hassan under such tense circumstances signals a consolidation of power amid widespread unrest. The election's legitimacy is heavily questioned, with opposition parties branding it a sham and citing violence and repression. The reports of hundreds of deaths, though unverified independently, suggest a severe crackdown on dissent. The international community's response, including calls for dialogue and peace, indicates concern over human rights violations. The prolonged protests and violence threaten Tanzania's stability, and Hassan's government will likely face increased pressure to address the political crisis and restore trust in electoral processes. The closure of borders and disruptions to trade, such as the halted cross-border traffic with Kenya, highlight the broader regional impact of Tanzania's internal turmoil.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports that Hassan was sworn in during a closed ceremony following election-related violence, with opposition rejecting the results and claiming no genuine election occurred. The Independent highlights the unusual, restricted nature of the inauguration and ongoing protests, with credible reports of at least 10 deaths. France 24 notes the violence and internet blackout, emphasizing the opposition's claims of hundreds of deaths. AP News details the deployment of the military, the protests, and the international attendance at the swearing-in, including regional leaders. All sources agree that the election was highly contentious, with significant violence and repression, raising questions about the legitimacy of Hassan's presidency and the stability of Tanzania.
How we got here
Hassan assumed office in 2021 after her predecessor's death. The recent election was marred by protests, violence, and the exclusion of major opposition candidates. The government declared Hassan the winner with nearly 98% of the vote, amid accusations of repression and election irregularities. The opposition and international observers have raised concerns over violence and the legitimacy of the vote, with reports of deaths and a nationwide internet blackout used to suppress dissent.
Go deeper
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