The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in the United Republic of Tanzania following the general elections held on 29 October 2025. The Commission noted reports of widespread unrest and violent clashes between protesters and security forces, which have reportedly resulted in hundreds of deaths and injuries. It also highlighted that a nationwide internet shutdown has hindered verification of the actual number of casualties, raising further alarm about transparency and access to information.
The Commission emphasized that, if verified, these incidents would represent serious violations of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which Tanzania ratified in 1984. It reaffirmed the importance of protecting fundamental rights and freedoms during electoral processes and urged the Tanzanian government to ensure peaceful, free, fair, and transparent elections. The Commission recalled its previous resolutions calling on States to prevent and investigate human rights violations related to elections and to provide justice and redress for victims.
Citing its Resolution 281 on the Right to Peaceful Demonstrations, the Commission reiterated its concern over arbitrary arrests, detentions, and the use of excessive force against demonstrators. It called on Tanzanian authorities to uphold international standards governing the use of force by law enforcement, ensure the protection of peaceful protestors, and release those detained for exercising their right to peaceful assembly.
The Commission condemned the reports of human rights abuses and urged the Government of Tanzania to de-escalate tensions, restrain the use of disproportionate force by security forces, and promptly investigate all alleged violations. It also called on Tanzania to sign and ratify the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, which promotes regular, transparent, and credible elections. The Commission concluded by affirming its commitment to continue monitoring the human rights situation in Tanzania closely.
