The United Nations has urged Tanzanian authorities to end the ongoing violence and restore internet access as post-election unrest spreads across several regions.
In a statement on Friday, the UN Human Rights Office expressed alarm over reports of deadly clashes between protesters and security forces following Wednesday’s general election.
Credible reports received by the UN indicate that at least 10 people have been killed in Dar es Salaam, Shinyanga, and Morogoro as police used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse demonstrators.
The agency said the situation was being made worse by a nationwide curfew and a blanket restriction on internet access that has been in place since October 29.
“We are alarmed by the deaths and injuries that have occurred in the ongoing election-related protests,” the UN said. “Authorities must fully uphold Tanzania’s obligations under international human rights law and ensure the rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly.”
The UN statement condemned the use of what it described as unnecessary or disproportionate force, calling on security agencies to stop using lethal weapons and instead seek to de-escalate tensions.
It also demanded that access to the internet be promptly restored, warning that information blackouts would further erode public trust in the electoral process.
Human rights groups and opposition figures have accused the government of silencing dissent through arrests and intimidation.
Reports have emerged of opposition leaders and supporters, including members of the Chadema party, being detained or disappearing under unclear circumstances.
The UN called for the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals held in arbitrary detention, and for fair trials for those legally detained.
It also urged authorities to launch impartial investigations into all acts of violence and hold those responsible accountable.
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