African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has congratulated President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her landslide re-election victory in Tanzania. Announced on November 1, 2025, Suluhu secured nearly 98% of the vote in the October 29 polls.
The AU statement also expressed regret over deaths during post-election protests in Dar es Salaam.
Tanzania's elections drew sharp criticism for disqualifying major opposition candidates and imposing an internet blackout. Security forces clashed with demonstrators, with rights groups reporting dozens killed and hundreds arrested.
The opposition, led by CHADEMA, rejected the results as fraudulent, citing voter intimidation and media suppression.
Youssouf stated, "The Chairperson takes note of the results of the presidential election in Tanzania and congratulates H.E. President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her victory." He added, "The Chairperson deeply regrets the loss of human life during the post-electoral protests and extends his sincere condolences to the families of the victims."
The AU leader urged respect for rights, saying authorities must safeguard these rights within the framework of the law while calling on citizens to protest peacefully.
He invoked the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, emphasizing "respect for the rule of law, human rights, fundamental freedoms, and political pluralism."
The Union pledged support for Tanzania's peace and democratic stability.Activists and opposition voices swiftly condemned the AU's stance.
Tanzanian exile Maria Sarungi Tsehai called the congratulations "shameful," sharing videos of alleged atrocities and accusing the AU of legitimizing a "murderous" regime.
Youssouf's message signals continued engagement with Dar es Salaam despite global concerns. Tanzania's political future now hinges on dialogue between government and opposition.
The AU's offer of support may test its influence in fostering genuine reconciliation.
The AU statement also expressed regret over deaths during post-election protests in Dar es Salaam.
Tanzania's elections drew sharp criticism for disqualifying major opposition candidates and imposing an internet blackout. Security forces clashed with demonstrators, with rights groups reporting dozens killed and hundreds arrested.
The opposition, led by CHADEMA, rejected the results as fraudulent, citing voter intimidation and media suppression.
Youssouf stated, "The Chairperson takes note of the results of the presidential election in Tanzania and congratulates H.E. President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her victory." He added, "The Chairperson deeply regrets the loss of human life during the post-electoral protests and extends his sincere condolences to the families of the victims."
The AU leader urged respect for rights, saying authorities must safeguard these rights within the framework of the law while calling on citizens to protest peacefully.
He invoked the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, emphasizing "respect for the rule of law, human rights, fundamental freedoms, and political pluralism."
The Union pledged support for Tanzania's peace and democratic stability.Activists and opposition voices swiftly condemned the AU's stance.
Tanzanian exile Maria Sarungi Tsehai called the congratulations "shameful," sharing videos of alleged atrocities and accusing the AU of legitimizing a "murderous" regime.
Youssouf's message signals continued engagement with Dar es Salaam despite global concerns. Tanzania's political future now hinges on dialogue between government and opposition.
The AU's offer of support may test its influence in fostering genuine reconciliation.
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