AU Congratulates Tanzania’s Samia as Rights Alarm Bells Ring

The African Union has congratulated Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election while at the same time expressing sorrow over deaths linked to post-election protests. The message reflects a balancing act between diplomatic recognition and concern over the state of civil liberties in Tanzania.

The announcement follows the National Electoral Commission declaring Hassan winner with 97.66 percent of the vote. AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf commended the government and said the Union stands ready to support peace, cohesion and democratic order in the country.

However, the AU did not gloss over the violence. Youssouf said the Union regrets the loss of life and expressed condolences to affected families. He urged authorities to safeguard civil liberties, including the right to peaceful assembly and free expression. He also reminded Tanzania of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance which calls for respect for rule of law, fundamental rights and political pluralism.

The results come after a vote marred by protests, a broad internet shutdown, heavy security deployment and widespread arrests. Young Tanzanians poured into the streets after major opposition leaders were barred from contesting. Protesters blocked roads and lit fires in urban centres. Security forces used tear gas and live rounds to disperse crowds.

Hospitals reported an influx of wounded patients. Rights organisations warned of arbitrary arrests and disappearances. Independent verification of casualties remains difficult because of communication restrictions.

The opposition claimed around seven hundred people were killed nationwide. The United Nations offered a far lower confirmed figure of at least ten deaths but said credible reports pointed to serious abuses and urged restraint by security forces.

The protests were triggered by the exclusion of Chadema and ACT-Wazalendo leaders from the ballot. Chadema leader Tundu Lissu remains on trial for treason. ACT contender Luhaga Mpina was disqualified after an objection by the Attorney General.

President Hassan did not make a public appearance during the unrest. The government relied on security briefings from military leadership and statements from ministries while state television continued broadcasting results.

In Zanzibar, security forces remained visible as the local electoral body announced a win for Hussein Mwinyi with 78.8 percent. Opposition figures alleged serious fraud and promised to announce their next steps.

The AU message offers both validation and warning. It acknowledges the announced result, yet it also places Tanzania on notice. The Union stressed that political stability cannot be separated from respect for rights and transparent electoral practice.

For Tanzania, the coming weeks will test whether the state chooses dialogue or force as it manages post-election tensions. The AU has extended congratulations, but it has also placed a human rights marker in plain sight. International legitimacy now rests not only on the declared result but on how the government treats its citizens in the aftermath.