ERC AFRICA CONDEMNS ELECTION-RELATED VIOLENCE IN TANZANIA

📍Tanzania

1 November 2025

ERC AFRICA CONDEMNS ELECTION-RELATED VIOLENCE IN TANZANIA

The Election Resource Centre Africa (ERC Africa) expresses deep concern over the escalating violence and human rights violations in the United Republic of Tanzania in relation to the general elections held on 29 October 2025. The ERC Africa notes that the elections have been characterised by the excessive use of force, deployment of the army in major cities, the use of tear gas and live ammunition, abductions and widespread arrests. All in response to allegations of electoral irregularities and widespread discontent brought about by the exclusion of opposition candidates from the polls. 

The conduct of the Government of Tanzania has gone against the tenets of the Constitution of Tanzania, the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG) and the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections to which the United Republic of Tanzania is a signatory. The right to life, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and all other rights associated with elections and electoral participation are non-negotiable democratic principles that must be safeguarded at all times, and the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has a responsibility to proactively protect this.

The ERC urges the Independent National Electoral Commission to act with utmost transparency and impartiality in the announcement of election results and calls on the Government of Tanzania to urgently prioritise inclusive dialogue, take decisive steps to de-escalate political tensions, and ensure that the legitimate grievances of citizens and political parties are addressed and act in the national interest. 

Genuine assessments of free and fair elections are incomplete without examining the extent to which civic and political freedoms are upheld in the aftermath of the polls. 

In solidarity with the people of Tanzania.

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