The governments of Canada, Norway, and the United Kingdom have condemned the ongoing violence in Tanzania following the country’s disputed general elections held on October 29, 2025.

In a joint statement released by the British High Commission in Dar es Salaam on Friday, October 31, 2025, the three countries expressed concern over reports of multiple deaths and injuries caused by a heavy-handed security response to protests that broke out after the polls.

“We urge the authorities, as previously discussed with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to act with maximum restraint and respect the right of assembly and freedom of expression,” the statement read.

The foreign ministers also denounced incidents of intimidation and harassment targeting opposition figures, journalists, and civil society members in the period leading up to the elections.

“We remain concerned that the run-up to the elections was marked by harassment, abductions and intimidation of opposition figures, journalists and civil society actors. We call on the Tanzanian authorities to uphold their international commitments and ensure that all citizens can participate freely and safely in public life,” they said.

Unrest

The statement follows widespread unrest before and after the re-election of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, which opposition parties have rejected, citing rigging, voter suppression, and intimidation.

Opposition leaders, including CHADEMA’s Tundu Lissu, allege that the electoral process was manipulated to favour the ruling party, CCM.

Protests erupted across Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar, with demonstrators demanding a fresh vote and justice for those arrested.

Security forces responded with force, deploying tear gas, live ammunition, and curfews to quell the demonstrations. Witnesses and human rights organisations have reported mass arrests and indiscriminate use of violence against civilians.

Local human rights groups, including the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), have accused authorities of carrying out unlawful detentions and restricting press freedom.

Several journalists have reportedly been threatened or forced into hiding, while some media outlets have faced suspension for covering the unrest.

The United Nations has also condemned the violence, urging Tanzanian authorities to respect human rights and ensure accountability.

The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) confirmed that at least 10 people have been killed during the unrest.

“We are alarmed by the use of lethal force against protesters and urge the authorities to conduct prompt, impartial investigations into all alleged violations,” the OHCHR said in a statement from Geneva.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has appealed for calm and dialogue, calling on all sides to prioritise peace and address election grievances through lawful means.

The African Union (AU) and the East African Community (EAC) have also expressed concern, warning that continued instability in Tanzania could undermine regional security and democratic progress.